12/2/2008
Reed Hollinshead
ITD Communication
208-334-8881
reed.hollinshead@itd.idaho.gov
Motorists to be switched over to section of new Snake River Bridge Thursday (Dec. 4)
BOISE - Motorists will be switched from the old bridge to a new section of the rebuilt bridge for the Snake River Bridge reconstruction project in Weiser on Thursday (Dec. 4), the Idaho Transportation Department announced. The Snake River Bridge on the U.S. 95 Spur in Weiser is being replaced with a wider structure. The bridge connects Annex, Ore., to Weiser.
Only one lane of traffic can safely pass over the new bridge section. To accommodate traffic wishing to cross over the bridge in opposite directions, portable signals will be used.
The right and left ramps on the Idaho side of the bridge will be closed. Traffic will need to follow the detour to access Old Highway 70. In addition, any traffic 12' or wider and/or taller than 14' 2" will need to detour through Payette.
The original bridge was built in 1903, with an additional span added in 1911. Traffic signals were added in 1949. The bridge was replaced in the 1950s - that's the one being replaced in this project. Once completed, the bridge will be 16 feet wider and able to carry greater traffic volumes. The highway on both sides of the bridge also will be reconstructed.
New curb, gutter and sidewalks are being reconstructed on the Idaho side of the bridge.
Sletten Construction of Boise is the contractor on this $10 million project. The project is expected to be completed in fall 2009. It originally was slated for completion in 2010, but crews are significantly ahead of schedule.
ITD and the Idaho State Police caution motorists to slow down and pay attention when driving in work zones, where increased speeding fines and other penalties apply. Motorists are encouraged to plan ahead and dial 5-1-1 or visit 511.idaho.gov for information on the state highway or interstate system.