OSHKOSH, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) — The Oregon/Jackson street bridge in downtown Oshkosh will remain closed for at least nine more weeks.
The bridge has been closed since May 26 when some of the equipment was discovered to be worn. Engineers say, during a routine inspection, they found that components in the gear teeth that help raise and lower the bridge were worn.
Tom Hardinger, supervisor at the Wisconsin Department of Transportation’s Bureau of Structures, says new parts need to be manufactured. That is expected to take about eight weeks, though with ongoing supply chain issues, that process could take longer.
It will take about a week to install the new parts.
“This really highlights the importance of our inspections,” Hardinger said.
The worn equipment is part of the operational part of the lift bridge and does not affect its structural integrity, Hardinger said.
At a news conference Thursday, DOT bridge engineer Jim McDowell described feeling an unusual vibration while inspecting the bridge. He said he traced the vibration to the gear box and opened the box to inspect it, finding the worn gear components.
The entire repair project is expected to cost about $120,000.
The DOT will also have bridge’s machinery inspected to see if the gear box on the other side of the bridge needs to be replaced as well.
While the bridge is closed, drivers can cross the Fox River using the Main Street (Highway 45) or Wisconsin Street (Highway 44) bridges.
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