POCATELLO — The city of Pocatello will begin construction on the Portneuf River Bridge on West Benton Street in mid-April, with a September completion date expected.

The city was awarded funding through the Leading Idaho Local Bridge Grant, administered by the Local Highway Technical Assistance Council, to replace the bridge.

Construction on the bridge, located between South Hayes and South Grant Street west of the Benton Street Overpass is anticipated to be finished by the end of September, weather and other unforeseen conditions permitting.

The project will replace the existing steel girder bridge with a new single-span concrete girder structure designed to improve safety and increase long-term reliability. The new bridge will be supported by a deep foundation system using driven piles.

In addition to the bridge replacement, work will include reconstruction of roadway and pedestrian approaches and relocation of select utilities. All construction will comply with the 2023 Idaho Standard Specifications for Highway Construction.

The Leading Idaho Local Bridge Grant will fully fund the project, requiring no local match. The bridge program is funded by the Idaho Legislature through Senate Bill 1359 and supports the repair or replacement of bridges greater than 20 feet in length that are in poor condition or have load restrictions, in accordance with Federal Highway Administration guidance.

The city is advising residents that a temporary road closure will be necessary to complete the bridge replacement and is encouraging drivers to use alternate routes.