The Idaho Transportation Department will host community open houses next week to gather early input about a project to build a new bridge over the North Fork of the Payette River in Valley County. Nearly a century after its construction, the current Rainbow Bridge no longer meets current standards for highway bridges.
Open houses will be located both north and south of the bridge. Community members may stop by at their convenience to learn about the project and provide input.
- Tuesday, July 23: 4-7 p.m. at the Evergreen Hotel (210 N. 3rd St., McCall)
- Thursday, July 25: 4-7 p.m. at the Horseshoe Bend School (398 School Rd., Horseshoe Bend)
- Online, July 23-Aug. 9 at itdprojects.idaho.gov/pages/rainbowbridge
“ITD recognizes the Rainbow Bridge’s significance to Idaho residents and travelers,” said ITD District 3 Engineer Jason Brinkman. “Feedback from the community will be essential as we design the new bridge and make decisions about the existing bridge.”
Additional public meetings will be held as the design process continues. In addition, a Bridge Involvement Group will meet on July 17 from 4-6 p.m. at the American Legion Post (105 W. Mill St.) in Cascade. The Bridge Involvement Group is open to community members who are willing to invest a higher level of time and engagement during the design process.
The existing Rainbow Bridge was completed in 1933. Environmental and design work for a new bridge began this spring. Construction is currently proposed for 2028 or 2029.
To learn more about the Rainbow Bridge project, visit itdprojects.idaho.gov/pages/rainbowbridge, call (208) 391-6580 or email info@sh55rainbowbridge.com.