Project name: Lieser Road Bridge – Emergency Bridge Repair

Location: Vancouver, Washington

Completion: August 2024

Size: 1,700 square feet

Cost: $1,236,371

Owner: Washington State Department of Transportation

Architect: Washington State Department of Transportation

Engineer: Washington State Department of Transportation

General Contractor: Tapani Inc.

Submitting Company: Tapani Inc.

Other Key Participants: Otak Engineering, Richey Wrecking, Schneider and Sons

Subcontractors: Brothers Concrete Cutting, CMC Steel Fabricators, Contech Services, Green Sweep Asphalt Service, Karvonen Sand & Gravel, Mill Plain Electric, Ness Campbell Crane + Rigging, Pacific Rim Service and Construction,  Ralph’s Concrete Pumping, Richey Wrecking, Schneider and Sons, Specialized Pavement Marking, Storie Barriers, The Bag Lady, W.E. Coates Surveying

A vital transportation link in Clark County is back in service following the successful completion of emergency repairs to the Lieser Road Bridge on Highway 14.

The project became necessary after a semi-truck accident severely damaged a 102-foot prestressed bridge girder, threatening the structural integrity of this critical overpass that serves approximately 8,900 vehicles daily. The overpass is a crucial lifeline connecting SR 14 to central Vancouver and PeaceHealth Hospital. It also is an essential route for travelers accessing major highways like I-5 and I-205.

Tapani, serving as general contractor, worked alongside the Washington State Department of Transportation to execute the complex repair plan, which included demolition and replacement of Girder 2G, repairs to Girder 2A and interior girders, and guardrail replacement.

To minimize public disruption, crews scheduled strategic night shifts and a carefully planned weekend closure of SR 14. The most intensive phase featured a remarkable 56-consecutive-hour closure dedicated to demolition and debris removal.

The project presented unique challenges due to the partial demolition requirements. Tapani brought in Otak Engineering to develop a specialized work plan with precise calculations predicting how the girder would respond during the excavator demolition process.

During demolition, Tapani partnered with Richey Wrecking, employing two excavators with breaking hammers to efficiently remove the damaged girder, deck, diaphragms, and barrier. This approach allowed for quick, precise work while maintaining project timelines.

After successful installation of the new girder, crews poured concrete to reconstruct the hinge diaphragm, intermediate diaphragm, end diaphragm, and bridge deck. A new 112-foot-long traffic barrier wall enhances safety for drivers, and fresh asphalt completed the restoration.

Throughout the project, safety remained paramount, particularly during night shifts and road closures. Extensive preplanning, daily coordination, and constant safety checks ensured all teams adhered to safety standards, from proper PPE usage to clear signage installation.

The project had a DBE contracting goal of 17 percent, and the project team met that target. Representatives noted that by partnering with diverse firms that brought valuable expertise to the job, they were able to deliver a high-quality project while supporting the growth of small and disadvantaged businesses in the industry.

“This project will ensure safe access for all travelers across the entire overpass, including designated shoulders for pedestrians and cyclists,” Sarah Hannon, WSDOT communications representative, said in the nomination form. “It will also restore this vital connection for travelers who use SR 14 to access Interstates 5 and 205.”

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