LOWER GRANITE DAM - Lower Granite Dam has reopened to vehicle crossings after the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers fixed a problem that compromised the foundation of bridge piers supporting a roadway ramp leading to the top of the dam.
The dam was closed to vehicle crossings Friday, when inspectors discovered the problem that was associated with an ongoing construction project to update the dam's juvenile fish bypass system.
This week, contractors constructed a temporary buttress to strengthen bridge pier foundations for the Almota Ferry Road leading to the south-shore entrance across the dam.
The corps resumed its previous public vehicle crossing schedule - daily from 7 a.m. through 5 p.m. - on Wednesday.
Tour and school buses must contact the dam at (509) 843-1493 at least 24 hours in advance for crossing authorization. The dam will be open for vehicle crossings Monday, despite the Presidents Day holiday.
Corps officials and a contractor are working on a long-term solution to the problem. According to a news release from the corps, motorists crossing the dam should be alert to ongoing construction activities there, which involve the use of heavy equipment and construction vehicles along the south-shore approach to the dam.
