The Idaho Transportation Department has placed an indefinite full closure on the Sandpoint Pedestrian Bridge — commonly known as the Long Bridge — after inspectors identified serious deterioration in critical structural components. The closure took effect at 5 p.m. on June 5, 2026, with access blocked at both the north and south ends of the span crossing Lake Pend Oreille.
The action expands a partial closure that ITD put in place in May 2026, escalating restrictions as officials determined the bridge’s condition posed unacceptable safety risks to the public. Drivers are not affected — the adjacent vehicular bridge and US-95 traffic continue to operate normally — but the vehicle span offers no separated lanes suitable for cyclists or pedestrians, leaving those users without a safe crossing alternative.
Safety Findings Drive the Decision
ITD District Engineer Ryan Hawkins acknowledged the significant role the bridge plays in daily life for Sandpoint residents and visitors. “We understand how important this bridge is to Sandpoint,” Hawkins said. “For many residents, this bridge is more than a crossing.”
Still, Hawkins made clear that the agency’s hands were tied by the inspection results. “Our responsibility is to ensure public safety, and the inspection findings make clear that action is necessary,” he said.
Officials have not specified the exact nature of the structural deficiencies beyond characterizing the deterioration as significant and affecting critical components of the bridge. The closure is open-ended, with no announced timeline for reopening.
ITD is actively reaching out to event organizers who hold permits tied to the bridge, notifying them of the changed conditions. Residents who face particular hardship as a result of the closure are encouraged to contact the department directly at 208-772-1200.
Replacement Plans Exist, But Funding Does Not
A broader study is already underway to examine replacement options for both bridges that span Lake Pend Oreille at this location. However, design and construction of any replacement remain unfunded, meaning the path from study to shovels in the ground could be lengthy.
ITD is looking at potential partnerships with the City of Sandpoint and local transit providers as it explores how to move forward, but no formal agreements have been announced. The funding gap presents a significant hurdle — major bridge replacement projects typically involve years of planning, environmental review, and multi-agency coordination before construction begins.
The closure adds urgency to conversations already happening at the local level about infrastructure investment. The City of Sandpoint has been surveying residents and weighing a potential November sales tax vote aimed at generating infrastructure funding, a process that could become newly relevant as the pedestrian bridge situation unfolds. Meanwhile, ITD has separately announced plans to replace the aging US-2 bridge in Priest River with a modern structure that would include dedicated pedestrian access — underscoring a regional pattern of aging crossings reaching the end of their serviceable lives across Bonner County.
What Comes Next
For now, pedestrians and cyclists who relied on the Long Bridge for commuting, recreation, or accessing services on the opposite shore will need to make alternative arrangements. ITD has not outlined specific detour options given that the vehicle bridge does not provide a safe non-motorized crossing.
The department’s ongoing study into replacement options will be a key factor in determining what, if any, interim solutions might be pursued. Any formal partnership with the city or local transit agencies would likely require additional planning and public input before moving forward.
Residents affected by the closure or seeking more information can reach ITD at 208-772-1200. ITD has indicated it will continue communicating with permit holders and community stakeholders as the situation develops.