Pine Street Bridge closed today for final repairs

The Pine Street pedestrian bridge closes today for final repairs as city crews place armoring rock on the river bank. The closure affects Pine Street Plaza and sidewalks from Olsen and Kamiaken streets, with motorists on Main and Paradise streets facing minor delays. Last week, the bridge reopened after being displaced by a flood in February, marking its first repositioning since Wasankari Construction successfully moved it onto its abutments on July 29. The bridge is designed to float when the South Fork of the Palouse River rises, but it did not pivot fully during the recent high water levels. This was the first time in 20 years that the bridge's mechanism was tested.

The city emphasizes the importance of these repairs for ensuring pedestrian safety and the bridge's long-term viability. The work is expected to be completed within a day, allowing for the bridge to resume normal operations. Local officials encourage residents to plan alternate routes during the closure.