Gem State Wire

Starting next week, drivers on Interstate 90 near Cataldo will experience traffic changes as work begins to reconstruct the bridges over the Coeur d’Alene River. Built in 1964, these bridges are due for replacement.

By mid-March, all traffic will be shifted to the westbound side of the interstate to facilitate the demolition and reconstruction of the eastbound bridge. The westbound bridge is scheduled for replacement next year, with traffic moving onto the new eastbound bridge. The project is expected to conclude in late 2026.

River users will face restrictions during construction in 2025. From April 1, recreational activities such as boating and fishing will be limited within 500 feet of both sides of the bridges from Monday through Saturday between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m. Boat launches outside this zone remain accessible, but passage under the structure during working hours is prohibited for safety reasons.

Construction breaks are planned for major summer holidays, allowing river access for recreation. Signs at local boat launches and access points will provide updates on restrictions or changes throughout construction.

Trail users should expect brief closures lasting five to ten minutes as equipment crosses the Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes during operations. Flaggers will ensure safe crossings for everyone involved. Caution is advised near work zones due to potential loose dirt or gravel on trails.

In preparation for this project, a temporary work bridge was built across the river in 2024 to facilitate crew and equipment access. Crossover lanes were also established at both ends of the work zone to maintain traffic flow during construction.

This initiative is part of several projects along I-90 from Washington state line to Silver Valley in 2025, including freeway expansion between Post Falls and Coeur d’Alene, upgrading I-90 State Highway 41 Interchange, and repaving from Wolf Lodge to Fourth of July Pass.

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