City engineers in Caldwell, Idaho, have taken immediate steps to protect pedestrians using the downtown Indian Creek bridges. After a routine inspection uncovered significant wear in the bridges’ wooden trusses and steel components, metal barriers were installed to limit the number of people on each span at one time.

Why the restrictions were needed

The bridges, built in 2008 from untreated timber salvaged from a local building’s roof, were originally expected to last about ten years. Eighteen years later, Mayor Eric Phillips noted visible deterioration and ordered a thorough structural review. City engineer John Prebonick explained that the barriers are a precautionary measure designed to keep the load below the reduced capacity of 82 pounds per square foot identified in the city’s load analysis.

Current condition and safety outlook

Despite the aging materials, the inspection concluded that the bridges remain safe for pedestrian use when the new capacity limits are observed. The primary concerns are the aging wood, which was not intended for long‑term outdoor exposure, and steel that has suffered corrosion from de‑icing salt.

Possible next steps

City officials are now weighing three main options: repairing the existing structures, undertaking a more extensive rehabilitation, or completely replacing the bridges. An upcoming request for proposals will allow the city to compare costs and feasibility. Preliminary estimates suggest a full replacement could cost roughly $2.6 million, though officials stress that the final figure could be lower depending on the chosen solution.

One key factor in the decision‑making process is whether the existing concrete abutments can support a new bridge. “The bridges are on two large concrete abutments,” Prebonick said. “We have to evaluate to see if those abutments would even support a full replacement.”

Timeline

The city expects to have a concrete plan of action within the next two years. In the meantime, the barriers will remain in place to ensure that pedestrians can continue to cross safely without exceeding the reduced load limits.

Residents are encouraged to stay informed through the city’s official channels and to plan alternative routes when possible. The city will provide updates as the evaluation and procurement processes move forward.

Original reporting: KIVI Idaho News 6 Boise metro (local) — read the source article.