6/22/2010
Reed Hollinshead
ITD Communication
208-334-8881
reed.hollinshead@itd.idaho.gov
Work suspended for summer on reconstruction of two U.S. 30 canal bridges near Twin Falls
TWIN FALLS - The reconstruction of two U.S. 30 bridges spanning the Twin Falls Canal will be suspended for the remainder of the water season, the Idaho Transportation Department announced. Two lanes of travel will be restored across the bridges.
Both bridges will be open to two lanes of traffic during the construction suspension, but a temporary concrete barrier will split traffic and protect the gap between the new and old structures. A 35-mph speed limit and 11-foot-six-inch width restriction will remain in effect at both bridges.
According to the original plan, crews demolished and reconstructed the southern half of both bridges located between Hansen and Murtaugh. Work to construct the north half of the bridges will resume in the fall after water has been drained from the canal. The split construction is being utilized to maintain traffic on U.S. 30.
The reconstruction work may only take place in the canal when it is empty of irrigation water during winter, according to a permit granted by the Twin Falls Canal Company. Crews will return to work in November.
The bridge located about three miles east of Hansen was constructed in 1933 and was posted for a weight limit in 2009. The weight restriction will remain in effect for westbound traffic only. The bridge, located near the outlet of Murtaugh Lake at milepost 238, was constructed in 1956.
Cannon Builders Inc., of Blackfoot, is the contractor for the $1.6 million bridge reconstruction project.
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.