The 929-foot draw span assembly, better known as the
Photo Courtesy of the Washington State Department of Transportation
The 929-foot draw span assembly, better known as the 'bulge' section of the Hood Canal Bridge, was removed via three tug boats Thursday.

Tugs move out old Hood Canal Bridge 'bulge'


May 8, 2009 · Updated 3:03 PM 

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Check out additional photos of yesterday's float-out courtesy of the WSDOT.

SHINE - A section the length of three football fields was removed from the Hood Canal Bridge Thursday, the Washington State Department of Transportation announced in a press release. Crews continue work to replace half of the longest floating bridge over salt water in the world.

It took three tug boats to remove the 929-foot-long draw span assembly, better known as the bridge's "bulge," after anchors holding the pontoons in place were detached.

The tugs worked in harmony, and used the tide to their advantage, as they pulled the aging section away. That section has been a part of the bridge for nearly five decades, according to the release.

Tugs will take the assembly to Sidney, B.C., where it will be used as a part of a pier for a new marina.

On May 1, the Hood Canal Bridge closed to all traffic for six weeks so crews could replace the east half of the bridge.

Get more information about alternative transportation options, including water shuttle and transit schedules, at www.HoodCanalBridge.com or by calling 1-877-595-4222.

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