6/1/2007
Dunnigan Creek Bridge over Idaho 21 to be replaced beginning in June
BOISE - Construction will start in early June to replace the Dunnigan Creek bridge over Mores Creek, the Idaho Transportation Department announced.
The bridge is located 14 miles south of Idaho City and seven miles north of the Mores Creek High Bridge. It will be torn down and replaced with a taller, wider structure. The bridge is at least 70 years old. The new bridge will include new guardrail to improve safety. Slope stabilization will also be done along Idaho 21 before and after the bridge.
There will be a temporary crossing over Mores Creek while the new bridge is built. The temporary crossing will maintain one lane in each direction for motorists. The speed limit in the construction area will be reduced to 25 miles per hour from 45 miles per hour, and signs will be posted informing motorists of the speed reduction.
Survey work and erosion control is scheduled to begin the week of June 4, along with installation of traffic signs. Approximately June 12, rock blasting and scaling work will start. The scaling is done to remove loose rocks from adjacent slopes. Traffic will be stopped at approximately 15-minute intervals for the scaling and rock removal. On June 18, excavation work is currently scheduled to begin on the downstream side of the bridge to enhance an existing wetland site. The work is done to fulfill environmental requirements.
There may be some construction activity on weekends. The work is scheduled to be finished late this year. McAlvain Excavation is the contractor on the $2.3 million project.
For current driving conditions on Idaho highways, call 5-1-1 or visit 511.idaho.gov.