SANDPOINT — Pedestrians will be able to cross the Long Bridge again by the end of next week, the Idaho Transportation Department announced Thursday, after crews installed custom steel support brackets on the structure’s most concerning sections.
Stabilization, not full repair
The department said the work, performed by engineers, bridge inspectors, maintenance staff and a local contractor, was an "intensive effort" to stabilize the bridge enough to permit a controlled, designated travel path. The supports — described as steel "saddles" — redistribute weight beneath portions of the bridge deck, allowing safe passage while additional evaluations and repairs proceed.
Officials emphasized the reopening is not a return to normal operations. The bridge remains in need of further repair in multiple locations, and the permitted route will avoid areas identified for future work.
"This is not a return to normal," District Engineer Ryan Hawkins said.
What pedestrians should expect
- A single, designated travel lane across the pedestrian path, marked with caution tape, cones and barrels.
- Barriers planned to replace temporary devices for longer-term use at a later date.
- A warning that traffic-control devices must not be moved or removed by the public.
Those changes will allow walkers to cross between Sandpoint and Sagle, and the department specifically noted the designated section will be open for spectators of the Long Bridge Swim on Aug. 1. The reopening also coincides with the planned end of a shuttle route provided this summer by the Selkirk Pend Oreille Transit Authority; SPOT officials said they may reinstate shuttle service later if needed.
Background and local context
Inspectors closed the pedestrian path just over one month ago after finding significant deterioration in key bridge components. The closure came at the start of the summer season and disrupted a seasonal pattern of foot traffic and events that rely on safe access across the lake.
The emergency stabilization work reflects a statewide challenge of maintaining aging transportation infrastructure while balancing access for communities. Local leaders and residents have watched the project closely because the bridge is a daily connector for commuters, recreational users and event-goers.
| Event | Timing |
|---|---|
| Inspection finds major deterioration; pedestrian path closed | Just over one month ago |
| Emergency steel supports installed | This week |
| Designated pedestrian route expected to reopen | By the end of next week |
| Long Bridge Swim (spectators allowed on designated section) | Aug. 1 |
For now, the Idaho Transportation Department is continuing detailed evaluation, planning and repair work. Residents are advised to follow posted instructions on the bridge and to refrain from disturbing safety devices so that the temporary measures can do their job while long-term fixes are developed.
As the summer progresses, officials will provide updates on further repairs and any changes to pedestrian or vehicle access.
