Changes coming to Sixth Street bridge

By JOSH MCDONALD

Staff Reporter

WALLACE — Those who drive heavy loads through the city of Wallace may have to change up their route now that the Sixth Street bridge has officially been put under a weight restriction.

Last week, the city of Wallace put up signs on both sides of the bridge regulating the weight allowances for single, double and triple axel trucks.

Used as the finish line for Wallace’s annual Lead Creek Derby in the summer, the Sixth Street bridge provides access from the city to Nine Mile Canyon, Dobson Pass and beyond.

In light of this news, the city has already begun the process of getting a new bridge built over the river. This new bridge will be partially funded by the state of Idaho, with some money matching from the city itself.

“We applied for bridge funds and we were approved,” Wallace city engineer Jim Roletto said. “The money for bridge design will be available this fall, and then construction funding will be available in fall of 2019.”

Despite the potential inconveniences that restrictions and construction may bring, Roletto is pleased with the opportunity for the city to get a much needed update on the old bridge.

“We are thankful that these funds are available and happy to have been awarded a much needed opportunity to get a new bridge built,” Roletto said.

The weight restrictions may pose a few challenges to the many different drivers conducting various logging, remediation and construction work up Nine Mile Canyon.

“The logging trucks will have to change some things,” Roletto said. “Whether it’s bringing down smaller loads or taking them over Dobson Pass. The companies using the bridge are exploring some options for the bridge such as putting steel plates down and a few other options. We will see what we can do for these companies and hopefully we can find something that works for everyone.”

For more information or to ask questions regarding Wallace’s soon-to-begin bridge project, contact the city of Wallace at 208-752-1147.