11/16/2010
Reconstruction of two U.S. 30 canal bridges resumes this week
TWIN FALLS - Now that the irrigation water has been turned off for the year, reconstruction of two U.S. 30 bridges spanning the Twin Falls Canal will resume with the construction of the second half of each bridge. Crews are expected to begin work this week, the Idaho Transportation Department announced.
Crews are returning to work on the two bridges between Hansen and Murtaugh after construction activities were suspended during the irrigation season in the summer months. Crews completed construction on the southern half during last winter and spring. Work to reconstruct the north half of the bridges could be started only after water was drained from the canal.
Traffic will be reduced to one lane and temporary traffic signals will be posted at each bridge as demolition and construction extends through the winter and spring months. A 35-mph speed limit and 11-foot-six-inch width restriction will remain in effect at both bridges.
The split construction is being used to maintain traffic on U.S. 30 through each work zone. The winter construction schedule is required by a permit granted by the Twin Falls Canal Company for work to take place in the canal only when empty of irrigation water.
The bridge located about three miles east of Hansen was constructed in 1933. 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.