Big Wood River Bridge near Ketchum dedicated to valley, Clausen
A few weeks after the bridge fully opened to traffic, a small ceremony was held Sept. 13 to dedicate the newest crossing of the Big Wood River near Ketchum. It was immediately noteworthy for the aesthetics it brought to the area, as well as the design of its lead engineer.
The dedication was held to thank all those who participated in this latest project of the extensive 27-mile Idaho Highway 75 Timmerman to Ketchum corridor. The ceremony focused on the bridge and the addition of six unique pieces of art, and the significant contributions of former ITD engineer Ken Clausen, who designed the bridge and served on the panel that selected the art. Clausen passed away in 2016. Clausen is pictured below, in 2014.
Members of the Claussen family also attended the ceremony, and several others spoke of Ken’s desire to bring unique and artful ways to incorporate every bridge he designed.
“Ken wasn’t just your typical engineer. He believed bridges were historical and should feature artwork in one way or another,” said ITD bridge designer Cameron Sobotka.
“I hope we can continue on the road he started — to make bridges look pleasing to the eyes of the public,” added ITD bridge designer Tony Azari.
Not only was the vision of artist Kay Kirkpatrick on display, but also the history of the corridor, the multiple aspects of the bridge design and construction, and combined efforts of many groups to complete the project. Blaine County Commissioner Angenie McCleary and Ketchum Mayor Nina Jones provided local perspective as to the level of interest ITD brought and desire to work with the community throughout.
“It’s even more impressive from the bike path. You can really see it, understand it, take time to think about it from this side,” she added.
McCleary noted two 35-foot wide wildlife passageways sit underneath the bridge to allow deer and elk a way across the river without coming up on the road.
“They’ll be enjoying these and, hopefully, the art,” she added.
Claudia McCain, the former chair of the Ketchum Arts Commission and co-chair of the Citizens Art Committee for the bridge art, served as emcee for the event held along the Wood River Trail with the new ID-75 bridge serving as the backdrop. ITD District Engineer Devin Rigby and District 4 project manager Steve Hunter also spoke during the dedication.
Pictured below: ITD South-central Idaho District Engineer Devin Rigby (second from right), artist Kay Kirkpatrick (in blue shirt near center) and members of project team gathered Sept. 13 for the bridge dedication in Ketchum.
Published 09-22-17