In the original St. Maries Bridge Replacements project schedule, the railroad bridge was to be constructed prior to the river bridge. However, with unforeseen delays during the first several weeks, there is no longer time to construct the railroad bridge without impacting the construction of river bridge, and the river bridge construction is the critical path to overall project completion. The project team is currently reworking the construction schedule with the Idaho Department of Transportation. This will NOT change the overall completion date of the project.
The schedule below reflects the new proposed timeline. The only difference between this and the original schedule is the timing of the railroad bridge work:
- Early winter 2017 through late winter 2018: Crews will construct the river bridge foundation.
- Riverside Ave between 4th and 1st Streets will be closed intermittently.
- Additional intermittent lane closures will take place as needed to mobilize equipment.
- Late winter through summer 2018: Crews will construct the west half of the new river bridge and will complete improvements on Railroad Ave.
- The road will be reduced to one lane with a temporary signal to direct traffic.
- Delays during peak hours can be expected.
- A pedestrian pathway will be maintained.
- Summer through fall 2018: Crews will remove and replace the railroad bridge.
- The detour through town will be in place.
- Summer through winter 2018: Crews will construct the east half of the river bridge.
- Two-way traffic will be shifted onto the new west side of the bridge.
- A pedestrian pathway will be maintained.
Please note that this schedule is still subject to change as the design is further developed and as critical subcontractors are secured.
Crews will complete the detour paving today in preparation for the railroad bridge closure in summer 2018. However, for approximately one week in the near future, the railroad bridge will be closed, and the detour route will be put into effect. This will take place as crews repair a utility pipe that broke last week.
Once the pipe is repaired, roadway impacts will be minimal until the river bridge is reduced to one lane in late winter 2018.
For questions or concerns call Gemma Puddy at 208-292-8515.