First new pontoon section installed

Jefferson and Kitsap counties took a 943-foot step closer to being reconnected today as WSDOT installed the first of three new SR 104 Hood Canal Bridge east-half pontoon sections.

Pontoon UVWX – the longest of the new east-half sections – was towed out of nearby Port Gamble Bay early this morning. It was in place about 5 a.m. amidst a flurry of construction workers and derrick barges that have been a constant presence on Hood Canal since May 1.

Weather pending, pontoon RST is scheduled to join UVWX in Hood Canal later this week. Once the pontoons are in place, work will be taking place inside the pontoons – securing them in place and connecting the electrical and mechanical systems.