Portola City Council Advances Bridge Monitoring and Traffic Safety Efforts

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At the September 11th City Council meeting, discussions regarding the Gulling Street Bridge project continued, with updates on funding and critical next steps. Martin McIlroy, representing the Engineering firm addressed the council, highlighting recent assessments and the potential acquisition of a 24/7 active monitoring station for the bridge.

The monitoring system, which would track any structural movement in real time, is being considered as part of a proactive approach to address concerns about the bridge’s integrity. Although the cost of the equipment is still being researched, the council plans to revisit the matter at a later date. McIlroy reassured council members that there have been no signs of structural deflections in the bridge to date.

This discussion follows a recent comprehensive field inspection by engineers. While the bridge’s foundation has suffered erosion since 2006, the engineering team confirmed that the superstructure remains in good condition.

However, the bridge has been identified to have erosion by Caltrans, prompting the city to take immediate measures to ensure safety. Traffic modifications, including a 15 mph speed limit for all vehicles and a 10 mph limit for school buses, have been implemented to reduce strain on the bridge. These adjustments are part of the city’s collaboration with Plumas Unified School District and local waste services to maintain safe travel across the bridge while minimizing further damage.

As the city moves forward with its efforts, data collected by engineers will inform a plan of action to address both immediate and long-term needs for the bridge’s safety and longevity.