2/23/2012
Reed Hollinshead
ITD Communication
208-334-8881
reed.hollinshead@itd.idaho.gov
UPDATE: Two-lane traffic on High Bridge over Lucky Peak on Idaho 21 starts Feb. 29 after closures
BOISE - After months of restrictions, users of the High Bridge over Lucky Peak Reservoir east of Boise on Idaho 21 will no longer be delayed by traffic signals. The bridge will reopen to two lanes of traffic Wednesday (Feb. 29), allowing the removal of a width restriction and the return of a 55-mph speed limit.
The return to two-lane traffic will begin after a few longer closures of up to 45 minutes on Wednesday morning following the morning commute.
Traffic
across the bridge has been controlled by signals at both ends, with
only one direction allowed to pass through at a time. A nine-foot width
restriction also limited wide loads, such as commercial vehicles.
“We
understand that this has been a huge inconvenience to the public, but
the work was necessary to maintain this 59-year old bridge,” said
project manager Dana Weiss. “The public has been more than patient. The
work required above and under the bridge was labor intensive and time
consuming.”
The bridge piers have been retrofitted with seismic
(earthquake) restraints; the foundation for the south pier has been
stabilized; the bridge deck has been resurfaced and new rails and
parapets have been installed, among other improvements.
Crews will
return to the bridge briefly this spring for minor work, but it will be
performed under periodic lane closures. No temporary traffic signals
will be necessary.
RSCI, of Meridian, is the contractor on the $2.8 million project.