Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) is preparing for a project on State Highway 55 that will replace the state’s iconic 100-year-old Rainbow Bridge.
The current Rainbow Bridge was built in 1933 and ITD says the bridge no longer meets the state standards for highway bridges. Listed in the National Register of Historic Places, the Rainbow Bridge would remain a scenic overlook, according to a report from Idahonews.com.
Located just north of Smiths Ferry and an hour outside of McCall, the bridge also needs replacing as the state faces growing traffic demands on Idaho 55, according to ITD. The department plans to preserve the concrete arched bridge built in 1933 and construct a new crossing alongside it, over the North Fork of the Payette River.
State transportation officials are aiming to “design a long-term river crossing that will serve Idaho communities, travelers and commerce for the next 100 years,” an ITD spokesperson told Yahoo News. “ITD is looking forward to working with the community on this project, as we will seek public input along the way.”
Last December, ITD completed three years of roadwork on Idaho 55 about a half-mile south of the Rainbow Bridge. The improvement project in the mountain corridor widened and straightened the highway, adding shoulders and guardrails to help prevent vehicles from going off embankments into the river below.
But the project suffered repeated rockslides during construction that led to more than a year of delays. It also resulted in a doubling of the total cost from $30.8 million to $62.8 million.
The Rainbow Bridge was recently voted Idaho’s most iconic overpass and ranked in the top 40 bridges across the U.S. in an online survey conducted by a South Florida Volkswagen dealership.
“This arch bridge is celebrated for its picturesque views of the surrounding mountains and (river), providing a stunning backdrop for travelers and photographers alike,” said Gunther Volkswagen to Yahoo News. “The bridge’s design and location encapsulate the essence of Idaho’s outdoor appeal, offering a visual treat that complements the natural beauty of the area.”
ITD said it hopes to approve a design for the Rainbow Bridge’s replacement this fall and a final design by fall 2026. Public meetings will be announced to receive community input throughout the process.
Source: Yahoo News, Idahonews.com
