Demolition work begins on Broadway Bridge in Boise

Construction workers with the Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) started demolition work Monday on Broadway Bridge by removing the cornerstone of the current structure, which was completed in 1956.

The demolition work on the existing bridge is expected to be completed in 20 days, weather permitting.

Because of the project, Broadway Avenue is closed from Myrtle to Cesar Chavez, with designated detours provided at the ITD website: www.itd.idaho.gov/NewsReleases/Broadway%20Bridge%20Construction%20Fact%20Sheet.pdf.

“The 1956 bridge cornerstone will be stored in Julia Davis (Park) during construction,” Terri Schorzman, Boise’s Arts and History Department Director, said. “Once construction is complete, ITD and the city will place this historic artifact near the new Broadway Bridge so it can continue to be a part of our community’s heritage.”

ITD held a press conference Monday morning, where Boise and ITD staff answered questions about the bridge-replacement project, then officials, crew leaders and others traveled to the work zone to witness the removal of the cornerstone.