Pontoons repaired, but not ready to launch
The Washington State Department of Transportation said on Tuesday that repairs have been made on four pontoons under construction for the new State Route 520 floating bridge. Those pontoons had concrete removed, additional rebar added, and new concrete poured where it had cracked and flaked after post-tensioning tests.
They say that new cracks once again developed in one pontoon last week following testing.
“These pontoons must be safe and functional for 75 or more years,” said state Transportation Secretary Paula Hammond.
Hammond said a panel will review the design and construction of the pontoons and will consider additional repairs that may be necessary for future pontoon cycles.
The targeted float date for the completed pontoons is expected in July or August, depending on the extent of repairs required and favorable tides.
