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I-84 Snake River twin bridge replacement will begin in early May

Work to replace two Interstate 84 bridges spanning the Snake River is expected to begin in early Ma.. The two-year project will replace the 1,100-foot twin bridges at milepost 216 near the Declo Interchange.

Drivers can expect to see work begin May 6 with placement of traffic control followed by construction of a temporary westbound entry ramp. Installation of a temporary work platform between the two bridges will precede demolition and construction of the westbound bridge, which will begin in June.

The westbound bridge is expected to be open to traffic in early 2016. Demolition and construction of the eastbound bridge will follow with final completion of the project expected in mid-2017. The new bridges will be slightly longer, feature wider shoulders, include fewer piers in the water, and increase vertical clearance for river traffic.

For the duration of the project, I-84 will be reduced to a single lane in each direction. All traffic will be diverted onto a single bridge. A speed restriction will be in effect for the duration of the project due to the narrow lanes and high traffic numbers. Detours will also be in effect for all wide and heavy loads.

The Declo Interchange (Exit 216) is expected to remain open throughout construction. A looping on-ramp for westbound traffic will be constructed for the first phase of construction with all other ramps remaining in their current location during the first phase.

The twin bridges, constructed in 1960 as part of the original interstate construction, are both considered structurally deficient. Each bridge carries about 7,000 vehicles per day.

Ralph L. Wadsworth Construction of Draper, Utah, is the contractor for the $17.88 million project.