Culvert issues force road's closure

The city of Sandpoint has closed North Boyer Road at the Sand Creek crossing due to structural concerns with a large culvert beneath the roadway. The closure is effective immediately and necessary to ensure public safety.

On Thursday, June 5, Bonner County alerted the city that the culvert may be failing. In response, city crews checked the culvert on Friday, June 6, and observed no visible signs of immediate failure. However, when crews returned on Monday, June 9, they noted that the condition had deteriorated significantly. At that point, the city planned to implement temporary weight restrictions and continue to monitor the site.

A follow-up check on Wednesday, June 11, revealed that the culvert's condition had worsened even further. Out of an abundance of caution for public safety, the city made the decision to fully close North Boyer Road at the Sand Creek crossing.

The closure is expected to be long-term, potentially lasting several weeks, while the city works with a team of engineers to design and construct a replacement culvert.

Traffic is being detoured to U.S. Highway 95 via Bronx Road and Schweitzer Cutoff Road. Users of Schweitzer Mountain are asked to use Bronx Road.

Officials recognize this closure will be an inconvenience to many, but with the structure actively deteriorating, closing the road was the only responsible course of action to ensure the safety of the public.

The city is now moving forward with engineering and design work for the culvert replacement. Updates will be shared as the project develops.

For more information, visit sandpointidaho.gov or contact Public Works at 208-263-3407.