8/13/2015
Perrine Bridge repairs begin Aug. 24
TWIN FALLS – Work to repair and resurface the Perrine Bridge is expected to begin later this month, the Idaho Transportation Department announced. The project begins Aug. 24 and will include lane closures and impacts to the pedestrian walkways. Work is expected to be complete by the end of November
Many of the traffic-impacting activities are expected to take place during non-peak hour travel periods and at night.
The roadway-surface work involves removing the existing sealcoat and placing a new concrete driving surface with a polyester concrete overlay. The work will include removal of the driving overlay followed by application of new surface in October. The polyester concrete is a relatively new procedure in Idaho, but has been used in different applications for decades.
Additional patch and repair of concrete curbing and walls, repair to pedestrian railing, and replacement of the joint seals also will take place along the top of the bridge.
The majority of traffic-impacting activities are to take place between 9 p.m. and 6 a.m. and one lane of traffic in each direction will remain open at all times. The contractor will be allowed limited opportunities to close a lane of traffic during other times of the day to access various construction activities. Drivers can expect a reduced speed limit through the project.
The remaining work will take place primarily on the arch and substructure of the bridge. Replacement of broken bolts, cleaning of debris and painting at various locations, and replacing gusset and access cover plates will be among major items. Overhead lighting also will be upgraded to LED lights, replacing the existing sodium fixtures.
“The Perrine Bridge is a vital link to the transportation system in southern Idaho. Regular maintenance and timely repairs are important to keep it in good condition and for its overall longevity,” said Scot Stacey, ITD engineering manager in Shoshone.
The project was originally scheduled to be funded and constructed in 2017. However, with project plans completed earlier this year, the repair work was advanced by the Idaho Transportation Board in May to take advantage of increased funding allocated by the Idaho Legislature earlier this year. The Perrine Bridge is one of 27 statewide projects selected to be advanced based on readiness and matching criteria for critical need to maintain or repair state highways and bridges.
The maintenance project is the first work on the Perrine Bridge since 2009, when expansion joints and bolts were replaced. The bridge opened to traffic in 1976 following three years of construction. Approximately 30,000 vehicles per day travel over the Perrine Bridge.
The state-funded $2.3 million project is under contract with Cannon Builders Inc., of Blackfoot.