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Paint problem means Narrows Bridge gets a new coat

by ERIC WILKINSON / KING 5 News

KING5.com

Posted on July 27, 2010 at 4:36 PM

TACOMA, Wash. – A paint problem on the Tacoma Narrows Bridge is forcing the state to repaint the structure. But it won't cost you a penny.

The paint is peeling and bubbling, which means water can seep in and corrode the steel support cables and compromise the structural integrity of the bridge. Crews are repainting all those cables.

The problem was first noticed when the new Narrows Bridge was opened three years ago. The painting work began last fall, but was suspended due to bad weather.

The good news is that the Washington State Department of Transportation worked out an extended warranty with the bridge designer, so none of this is costing the state or taxpayers any money.

The work is expected to be done by the end of August.
 

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Comments: Displaying 1 - 3 of 3

skippypotpiebaby said on July 28, 2010 at 8:27 AM

Good Job DOT

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clear2copy said on July 27, 2010 at 7:40 PM

"But it won't cost you a penny."... ya.. if you believe that, I have a bridge to sell you...oh..wait.

48593614
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kyra688 said on July 27, 2010 at 6:14 PM

Seems like if the paint is blistering there is already moisture present in the cables and they are likely corroding from the inside. Didn't anybody notice how the cables were exposed prior to being finished, placing a tarp over a tightly packed bundle of hundreds of strands does not dry it out. There must be a way to x ray or do some type of corrosion testing to be sure. Paint doesn't fail that way unless there is vapor being released from the surface it was adhered to. There were corners cut during construction and a bet placed that the warranty would expire before any problems would occur.

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