Port of Siuslaw Manager, Robert Forsythe, announced the Wharf Improvement Project is proceeding well and the scheduled in-water work has been completed.  The entire project is expected to be completed by the end of March 2013.  “The Port appreciates the public’s patience and cooperation during this needed facility repair,” Forsythe added.  The Wharf Improvement project is being funded primarily with a grant from the Oregon Department of Transportation ConnectOregon III program, along with Port matching funds secured with a loan from Business Oregon’s Port Revolving Loan Fund.

 

Legacy Contracting, Inc., of Stayton, was awarded the $1,353,650 construction contract last fall.

The project involves demolition and reconstruction of portions of the Old Town Wharf to improve its safety and stability; the 22,000 square foot wood wharf was built in 1966.  Demolition work includes timber pile, pile cap and stringer removal, and utility relocation.  Reconstruction consists of installation of steel pile, girder and structural assembly, and other timber repairs.

 

Materials and equipment for the project continue to be staged in the Nopal Street and Mo’s parking lots.  Brief, single-lane closures of Bay Street may occur as equipment or materials are moved to and from the site.  Pedestrian access to the wharf and transient vessel dock surrounding the wharf will be redirected as needed during the project to ensure public safety. The Port’s tenants on the wharf, ICM Restaurant and Mo’s Restaurant, are expected to remain open for business during the project.  “Our contractor has assured us that both restaurants should be able to operate normal business hours throughout the project,” Forsythe said.

 

All piling work has been completed, according to Legacy staff.  Forty-one new pile were installed.  Legacy also removed approximately ninety old pile as part of the mitigation required for the project.  The contractor estimated over 200 tons of materials will be used during repairs, including steel beams up to 67 feet in length.  Work for the coming two weeks includes welding and placing subcaps, temporary shoring, and installation of 24” beams.  Legacy is currently working 10 hour days, Monday-Thursday; however, days and times will vary with the tide stage and work required.

 

Regular project announcements will be posted on the Port’s website, www.portofsiuslaw.com, and Facebook pages.   Any questions should be directed to the Port office at 541-997-3426 or email port@portofsiuslaw.com.