Drivers traveling Interstate 90 just east of Coeur d’Alene across the Blue Creek Bay should expect changes beginning Sept. 8 as crews repair and replace expansion joints, which allow the bridge to expand and contract with temperature changes.
Through the work zone, traffic will be reduced to one lane in each direction. Crews will start on the eastbound bridge, requiring that traffic to be shifted to the westbound bridge. Once that work is complete, traffic will switch and crews will repeat the process on the opposite side. Construction is expected to last through November.
This work follows a major rehabilitation project on the Blue Creek Bay Bridge completed in 2020. While that project addressed more extensive repairs to the bridge, additional work to the bridge’s joints is now needed to maintain the structure and extend its service life.
“We strategically scheduled this work for after Labor Day, when seasonal traffic volumes typically decrease,” Project Manager Edward Cabale said. “We know how challenging traffic was during the previous project, and we took those lessons into account as we planned for this one.”
The work is part of ITD’s annual bridge repair program, which focuses on critical maintenance and repairs that help extend the life of Idaho’s bridges and keep them in good condition for travelers.
Drivers should also be aware that this work is taking place along a corridor with several other active construction projects. Traffic conditions are frequently changing as projects progress, so motorists should slow down, pay attention to posted signs, use Idaho 511, and allow themselves additional travel time.
Information about this project can be found online, in addition to information about all projects currently under construction in North Idaho.