Portland Bureau of Transportation: EMERGENCY CLOSURE OF STEEL BRIDGE - Effective immediately, the gates on the lower deck of the Steel Bridge are closed and locked on both the west and the east ends of the bridge. The lower deck will remain inaccessible to both pedestrians and bicyclists at least through the Monday morning commute.
The bridge operator notified Transportation Maintenance on Saturday night that the four automatic lift gates are not closing completely, which creates a hazard for pedestrians and bicyclists crossing the bridge. Therefore, it was necessary to close and lock the two manual gates that control pedestrian and bicycle access.
A structures engineer and electricians will investigate the problem as soon as possible on Monday.
Pedestrians and bicyclists are advised to use an alternate route or cross the Steel Bridge on the upper deck. Be especially cautious and safely share the walkways because they are narrow. Also be advised that the Broadway Bridge is closed, so it is not a viable alternative.
