ITD is rehabilitating the State Highway 21 Mores Creek Bridge.

SH-21: Mores Creek Bridge Rehabilitation

ITD is rehabilitating the State Highway 21 Mores Creek Bridge.


Overview

The bridge, located 17 miles east of downtown Boise and spanning the Mores Creek segment of Lucky Peak Reservoir, was originally constructed in 1953. This preservation and rehabilitation project aims to address deficiencies identified during inspections, enhancing safety and functionality for the traveling public. ITD’s goal is to extend the bridge’s service life by an additional 28 years, reaching 2053, through ongoing maintenance and necessary repairs.

Map of Mores Creek Bridge

Previous Rehabilitation Effort

Over the years, the bridge has undergone several rehabilitation and repair projects, including railing replacement, seismic retrofitting, structural painting, and pavement overlay.

Current Rehabilitation Scope

The current project will include, but is not limited to:

  • Cleaning and painting the steel superstructure and bearings
  • Replacing deck joint seals (waterproofing material at deck joints)
  • Concrete spall repairs (to extend the life of the concrete deck and substructure)
  • Mitigate and prevent erosion

Project Phasing

The rehabilitation of this 72-year-old bridge is expected to take up to approximately 6 months and will be executed in two phases. Construction will occur on one half of the bridge at a time, ensuring continuous access for motorists and maintaining traffic flow through the corridor.

Traffic Management

Temporary traffic signals at each end of the bridge will control two-way, single-lane operation through the bridge. The project will be confined within the existing right of way, with all work being performed from the bridge deck. This approach will minimize disruptions and eliminate lengthy detours.

Exception: Wide loads will be required to follow posted detour route during construction.

Project Timeline

  • 2023 January

    Asset Management Plan – Completed

  • 2025 January

    Preliminary Design

  • 2025 Spring

    NEPA Approval

  • 2025 Summer

    Final Design

  • 2026 Fall

    Construction Anticipated

  • 2027 Spring

    Completion Anticipated

Chonne Sherman

Project Inquiries