New Bridges Destined For North-Central Idaho

An innovative way to replace the Time Zone Bridge at Riggins is one of the road projects proposed in the state transportation improvement program.

The list, which runs through 1999, is to be considered by the state Transportation Board next month, said Glenda Deitrick, senior planner for Region 2 of the Idaho Department of Transportation.

Deitrick said the new Time Zone, or Goff, bridge across the Salmon River will be built on the same spot as the existing span. New abutments will be built next to the present bridge.

The present bridge will be moved onto these new abutments to serve as the detour route while the new one is constructed in its place.

Preliminary work has already started, Deitrick said.

Replacement of the Kamiah bridge on U.S. Highway 12, if approved, is expected to cost more than $5 million and begin this winter, she said.

The new Orofino bridge is to be constructed next year 50 feet downstream of the existing one, which crosses the Clearwater River from U.S. Highway 12 into downtown Orofino.