4/11/2011
Reed Hollinshead
ITD Communication
208-334-8881
reed.hollinshead@itd.idaho.gov
Firebird's 52-year-old Willow Creek Bridge to be replaced in July
BOISE - In July, the two-lane bridge north of Firebird Raceway on Idaho 16 will be replaced with a wider, three-lane structure. The Idaho Transportation Department expects this project to last about six months.
The bridge replacement, about 8 miles south of Emmett at milepost 6.3, will result in a significantly wider bridge - 54 feet wide compared to the current 36-foot width. It also will be slightly longer - 108 feet vs. the current 90 feet. The new bridge will be a single-span structure.
The speed limit will be reduced during construction. Traffic will be shifted, but one lane will be maintained.
Click herefor a picture of the bridge and map of the bridge location.
In addition to replacing the bridge, built in 1959, the project will require approach work to accommodate the new width of the structure and construction of a temporary detour on the west side of the existing bridge to accommodate southbound Idaho 16 commuter traffic.
The project will primarily address the poor condition of the bridge substructure.
Questions? Visit us online at itd.idaho.gov, follow ITD on Twitter (IdahoITD) or Facebook and check travel conditions at 511.idaho.gov or dial 5-1-1. Please slow down in highway construction zones and pay attention. The safety of drivers and workers is the transportation department's highest priority.