PHOTO-OP, MONDAY

The I-40 bridge construction site will be open to the media Monday, July 8. This is an opportunity to view, take pictures or footage of Gilbert Central Construction building the new I-40 bridge. This photo-op will take place on the east side of the river. We will group on the eastbound lanes of I-40 at the gate first, and shortly before 11 a.m. you will follow us in your own vehicles as close as possible to the work area. We will not be able to drive into the work area so please be prepared to walk about 1/4 mile. (Please use your smaller vehicles, the area cannot accommodate satellite trucks!)

This is not a press conference, rather a photo-op, however both ODOT and Gilbert engineers will be on site to answer any questions. Because of the amount of equipment, supplies and construction traffic on the west side of the river, it is not possible for us to get close enough to that work site for photos. However the area on the east side will give you a better, bird's-eye view of the overall work area.

What: I-40 Bridge photo-op

When: Monday, July 8, meet at 10:30 a.m. and be on bridge from 11 - 11:30 a.m.

Where: at the gate on the eastbound lanes of I-40, on the east side of the river

Directions:

From the west:

Take the US-64 detour route east through Webbers Falls to Gore. Follow detour to the south in Gore rejoining I-40 at exit 291 on the east side of the river. Turn left and follow the onramp to eastbound I-40 and at the end of that ramp, U-turn on the eastbound lanes so that you are driving west on the eastbound side(these lanes are closed to traffic). Go around the two sets of barricades and stop at the gate. We will meet you there and lead you closer to the river. Because of the construction we will not be able to drive to the end of the bridge, so be prepared to walk about 1/4 mile.

From the east:

Take I-40 west and take the detour exit (exit 291). Turn left and go under I-40. Turn left and follow the onramp to eastbound I-40 and at the end of that ramp, U-turn on the eastbound lanes so that you are driving west on the eastbound side(these lanes are closed to traffic). Go around the two sets of barricades and stop at the gate. We will meet you there and lead you closer to the river. Because of the construction we will not be able to drive to the end of the bridge, so be prepared to walk about 1/4 mile.