Caltrans plans pier implosion for Nov. 14

Oakland, Calif. –Today, — Caltrans announced that the implosion of Pier E3 of the old Bay Bridge is scheduled take place on Saturday, Nov. 14, one week later than previously planned. Experts opted to move the date after their thorough inspections found certain project materials were unsatisfactory.

"This is our process at work," said Brian Maroney, Chief Bridge Engineer for the Caltrans Toll Bridge Program. "Safety is the first priority. We commend the contractor for their diligent and extensive verification of the product they received, and for swiftly notifying us of the desire to reschedule. Safely and responsibly executing the implosion within the month of November remains our main objective."

The implosion is expected to total six seconds, and will occur mostly underwater. According to Caltrans, the best place to watch the implosion will be online. Follow along on twitter at #E3Implosion, or check https://www.dot.ca.gov/e3implosion for more information.

Bay Bridge traffic will be held for approximately 15 minutes to prevent potential distraction to drivers. BART trains will be held temporarily outside of the Transbay Tube, resulting in slight delays.