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ITD steps in to help repair Elk Meadows Bridge

The problem: A hole large enough in a wooden bridge to swallow a small car
The dilemma: On-going discussions of ownership and repair responsibilities
The solution: A new bridge deck on an off-system bridge

ITD stepped to the forefront to repair a beleaguered bridge in north-central Idaho that connects residents of a small subdivision to a rural road in Idaho County. Although ownership of the bridge -- either the homeowners or the county -- is a question that remains unresolved, ITD committed to making the necessary safety improvements that will enable continued use of the Elk Meadows Bridge.

A judicial ruling notwithstanding, homeowners and county officials engaged in a six-year debate about ownership leading to pleas for ITD to help. At the direction of the Federal Highway Administration, ITD bridge inspectors analyzed load-carrying capacity and construction of the wooden structure early this year. Their conclusion was that it could not be crossed safely. As a result, ITD recommended immediate closure.

The inspection proved to be the impetus needed to proceed with repairs. The following summary is provided by the Clearwater Progress in its Oct. 11 issue:

KAMAIAH - After a six-year battle to repair their crumbling bridge, residents of the Elk Meadows Subdivision are finally enjoying a safe and sturdy access to their property this week, courtesy of the Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) and federal highway funds.

Resident Douglas Dompier expressed joy and relief this week after years spent wrangling with the Idaho County Commission over the responsibility of bridge repair. That struggle included a lawsuit and a subsequent conflict over the interpretation of the judge’s findings.

It also included a public relations campaign where residents asked the governor’s office to intervene before residents were forced from their homes or a tragic accident occurred.

Dompier said the impasse was finally resolved in June when residents sought help from the Idaho Transportation Department and Federal Highway Administration. After a review of the court case, the agencies found that the bridge was public and, therefore, had to be inspected. Following that inspection, the state ordered the bridge immediately closed to all traffic and then sought out federal funds for its repair.

That repair was under way last week. Upon completion, residents plan a ribbon cutting ceremony to thank the many friends and neighbors who supported them. When final preparations are completed, a date and time will be announced.