BLACKFOOT — The Idaho Transportation Department will begin construction of the new Riverton Road Bridge on Monday. The old bridge was damaged in October when a semi crashed into one of the support pillars.

The old bridge will be demolished and replaced with a two-span steel girder bridge that will allow for future widening of Interstate 15. Demolition will occur over three nights from May 18 to May 20, necessitating full closure of the I-15 at Riverton Road during those nights. Interstate traffic will be detoured from Exit 89 to Exit 93.

Work is expected to be completed in November. During construction, speed limits will be restricted to 65 mph in the work zone. Access over I-15 on the Riverton Road bridge will remain closed until the project is completed.

Drivers are encouraged to use the Idaho 511 system, either online, by phone or through the app, for updates on conditions and traffic impacts throughout the construction season.