The Idaho Transportation Department invites the public to attend an open house to learn about and comment on plans to replace the Priest River Bridge on U.S. Highway 2 next Thursday.
Originally built in 1962, the bridge remains open to traffic but is reaching the end of its expected service life. The foundation is in poor condition and no longer meets modern design standards, making it functionally obsolete and due for full replacement.
At this event, the community can learn about the project’s goals and objectives, review the different replacement design options being considered, ask questions and offer feedback while the project is still in the design phase. All comments gathered during the open house will help shape the final design of the future new Priest River Bridge.
“We make a point to engage the community early enough in design that public feedback can truly make a difference,” Project Manager Randy Durland said. “We know not everyone will have the same vision for the bridge, but hearing from a wide range of voices helps us deliver something that fits Priest River and its people.”
The project, located just east of the city of Priest River, will replace the existing bridge, improve traffic flow, and provide pedestrian access over the river. Construction is currently scheduled to begin in2029-2030 and could last for up to two years, depending on the chosen alternative design.
November Open House
Date: November 6
Time: 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Location: Priest River Event Center, 5399 US-2 Priest River, Idaho
The meeting will be held in an open-house style so people can drop in anytime. This event is open to everyone, including families.
Those who cannot attend in person can review identical information online at https://itdprojects.idaho.gov/pages/us2-priest-river-bridge-replacement and provide feedback during the official public comment period, open November 6-21, 2025.