Idaho officials approve railroad’s plan for second bridge

SANDPOINT – Idaho officials have approved BNSF Railway’s application for a permit to build a second railroad bridge in northern Idaho across Lake Pend Oreille and Sand Creek in Sandpoint.

The Idaho Department of Lands in a news release Friday said acting Director David Groeschl issued the final order on Thursday.

Approval from the state agency is required because it regulates encroachments and activities on navigable lakes in Idaho.

BNSF Railway must still obtain permits from other government agencies before construction can begin.

Railway officials said a second bridge is needed to accommodate increased train traffic and future growth.