Vernon Smith Bridge Replacement Project

The Vernon Smith Bridge Replacement Project is underway and it is anticipated that the new bridge and roadway will be in service by early summer. Girders for the new bridge over the Touchet River were set on April 10, according to Jeff McCowen of the Columbia County Public Works Department. Cranes from Lampson Crane of Kennewick were brought in to lift the girders into place under the direction of prime contractor Goodman & Mehlenbacher Enterprises, Inc., of Kennewick. Extensive planning by County Engineer Grant Morgan and the Public Works staff have been devoted to the project.