I-90 Bridges near Cataldo

Construction

Work began in 2024 with the construction of temporary crossovers to prepare for traffic to be shifted in 2025 allowing for demolition and reconstruction of the eastbound bridge which was completed by winter. Looking ahead in 2026, construction efforts will begin in the spring to demolish and replace the westbound bridge by the end of the year.

Traffic impacts during I-90 bridge replacements

Expected construction impacts will be lane reductions and speed restrictions throughout the work zone, very similar to those experienced last year as the eastbound bridge was replaced.

In spring, a single lane of westbound traffic will be crossed over to the new eastbound bridge to allows crews to demolish and reconstruct the westbound structure. The narrowed lanes are still expected to accommodate recreational traffic like camp trailers and RVs.

Work is expected to be fully completed by the end of 2026. Impacts are subject to change with further analysis, and intermittent ramp closures are likely. Messaging boards will be posted near the construction zone to inform drivers in advance of closures.

This project is one of several that will dot the I-90 corridor from the Washington state line to the Silver Valley in 2026, including the I-90 expansion project between Post Falls and Coeur d’Alene, the I-90 State Highway 41 Interchange project, and the I-90 Wolf Lodge to Fourth of July Pass pavement rehabilitation project.

Drivers are encouraged to use the Idaho 511 system, either online, by phone or through the app, for updates on conditions and traffic impacts throughout the construction season.

River & recreation impacts during construction

Recreational access and use of the river, including boating, kayaking, tubing, swimming and fishing, near the construction zone will be restricted for 500 feet on both sides of the bridges during active construction.

These restrictions will be lifted and the river will be accessible over winter months.

For the 2026 construction season, restrictions will once again be in effect from April through November inhibiting access, use and passage Monday through Saturday from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Boat launches outside of the work zone will remain available for use, though no one will be able to pass beneath the structure during working hours for safety reasons. Later in the summer restrictions may be changed or lifted depending on overhead work being done.

Construction will take scheduled breaks during the major summer holidays each season and access to the river will be available for recreation.

Signs will be posted locally at boat launches and access points that will update users of restrictions or changes throughout the construction process. 

Trail impacts

During construction trail users should be aware that there may be intermittent closures of five or ten minutes as equipment and materials are transported across the trail during day to day operations. Flaggers will be present during these closures to ensure safe crossing for crew members, vehicles and trail users alike.

Trail users should exercise caution in areas adjacent to the work zone for the possibility of loose dirt or gravel on the trail surface.

Timeline

Design of this project was completed in 2021. Initial construction began in 2024, and it is expected to be complete by late 2026.

Video overview of project design, phasing and traffic impacts.

Project contact information

If you have questions or comments about this project, please contact the project manager at steve.nettleton@itd.idaho.gov or (208) 772-1200.