5/5/2006
Idaho 55 Rainbow Bridge restoration project begins May 15
BOISE - Work to rehabilitate the historic and often-photographed Rainbow Bridge on Idaho 55 north of Smiths Ferry will start on Monday (May 15). Mowat Construction Company of Washington will be the contractor on this $2.9 million project.
One lane of Rainbow Bridge will be closed to traffic during work hours. The contractor will only work between noon Mondays and noon Fridays.
The project is designed to preserve and protect the structure for future generations and improve safety for today's traveler. Mowat Construction Company will make improvements to the arch piers, bridge rail, floor beams, deck joints and columns of the bridge. Lane closures on the bridge will not occur on weekends, holidays or when scheduled community events will result in a considerable increase in traffic.
Rafting and kayaking traffic on the North Fork of the Rainbow Bridge also will be managed by construction personnel near the work zone.
The work is scheduled to be complete this fall.