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North Fork Payette River Bridge wins Precast Concrete awards

The North Fork Payette River Bridge recent replacement on Idaho 55 in Cascade won two awards January 9 from the Precast/Prestressed Concrete Institute — as a Design Award winner for a bridge with a main span measuring 76-149 feet, and an honorable mention from the same group for all precast concrete structures, regardless of dimension.

Replacement of the highway’s old three-span steel girder bridge was advanced from 2017 due to excessively corroded bridge piles, or supports, on the 65-year-old bridge.

Because any prolonged traffic interruptions would have significant impact, ITD determined the entire structure had to be replaced utilizing accelerated bridge construction methods, and precast concrete elements were used for all bridge components. The project was completed during a single construction season to minimize public inconvenience.

The bridge deck was treated with a waterproofing membrane and double layer of asphalt to protect against deicing chemicals, water, and wear-and-tear. The exposed precast concrete faces were texturized and stained to imitate the natural surrounding rocks.

The route provides a vital north-south link for Idaho’s commercial and tourist traffic. The bridge could no longer support heavy vehicle loads, requiring new load restrictions along the route and impeding commercial traffic.

ITD’s State Bridge Engineer, Matt Farrar, will travel to Cleveland in March to accept the award. ITD engineered and owned the project, with general contracting from RSCI of Boise.