ITD limits access to parts of walking bridge

SANDPOINT — After a routine inspection of the Long Bridge's pedestrian bridge, portions of the structure are being restricted, Idaho Transportation Department officials said Thursday evening.

ITD officials said the inspection identified isolated areas of the pedestrian bridge that need further evaluation and repair planning, Idaho Transportation officials said Thursday evening.  As a safety precaution, access to portions of the bridge is being restricted while engineers complete more detailed inspections and determine the next steps for repairs. 

"Despite these areas of restriction, bridge users are still currently able to travel the full length of the bridge from end to end," Heather McDaniel, ITD public information officer, said in a press release.

While the structure will remain accessible, ITD officials said it is important that all bridge users follow posted signs and traffic control devices and stay out of restricted areas. The temporary restrictions are intended to help keep bridge users safe while the bridge undergoes additional evaluation.

ITD officials said regular bridge inspections are a critical part of maintaining safe infrastructure, especially for aging bridges exposed to decades of weather, moisture, freeze-thaw cycles, and daily use. 

McDaniel said a similar inspection completed in 2015 identified separate areas of concern that were repaired at that time. The deterioration identified during the current inspection involves new areas and is not related to the previous repairs.

"The conditions identified are consistent with normal wear and tear expected on a structure of this age and type," she said. "Identifying these issues through routine inspections allows engineers to address concerns before conditions worsen."

The Long Bridge has connected the Sandpoint community for more than a century and remains one of North Idaho’s most recognizable landmarks. The current pedestrian bridge opened to vehicle traffic in 1956 before being converted into the pedestrian and bicycle path used today after the current vehicle bridge opened in 1981.

Since then, the bridge has continued to age and requires ongoing maintenance to remain safe for public use. To help preserve the structure for continued pedestrian and bicycle access, vehicle traffic has been restricted for many years.

In addition to ongoing maintenance and evaluation efforts, ITD is conducting the U.S. 95 Long Bridge Replacement Study to plan for the future of the crossing and long-term transportation needs in the Sandpoint area.

The study is evaluating future replacement options for both the vehicle and pedestrian bridges to better serve drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians for generations to come, though design and future construction of a replacement bridge remain unfunded at this time.

ITD is proactively coordinating with the local partners to discuss options and identify solutions that prioritize public safety while supporting community traditions whenever possible.

ITD officials said additional updates will be shared as more information becomes available.