Transportation officials are addressing public concerns about visible gaps at the ends of the Tazlina Bridge, saying the issue is expected during extreme cold and does not indicate an unanticipated problem.
According to the Alaska Department of Transportation & Public Facilities, the bridge is undergoing a rehabilitation project that will continue next construction season, when permanent bridge joints are scheduled to be installed. Until then, the current condition reflects normal bridge behavior in cold temperatures.
Officials explained that all bridges expand and contract as temperatures change. With the recent cold snap in Interior Alaska, the bridge joints are at their widest point of the year. DOT&PF said this seasonal movement was anticipated as part of the project design.
The department’s Bridge Section and Bridge Maintenance crews are aware of the conditions and will continue to monitor the bridge for any adverse changes. At this time, no immediate safety concerns have been reported.
DOT&PF thanked drivers and local residents for their patience as work progresses, noting that the project is part of ongoing efforts to maintain safe and reliable transportation infrastructure across the state.
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Updates will be provided as the rehabilitation project advances, with permanent improvements planned to address the joints during the next construction season.
