Orange Bridge Closure in Elko County: June-October 2024

The Bureau of Land Management will close Orange Bridge on Road 1096 from June 3 through October 30 to replace the aging structure, which provides access to the northern Elko District and Jarbidge Wilderness.

The closure will force travelers to take a 50-mile detour around the bridge in the Marys River watershed. Engineers inspected the bridge in 2021 and found it critically deficient. The BLM reduced the weight limit to 3 tons in 2013 after deterioration damaged the steel beams and wood decking.

Built in 1954 and modified in 1991, Orange Bridge ranks among the BLM's highest replacement priorities in Nevada. The structure serves recreationists, livestock grazing permittees, and other users.

Construction will begin September 16 and last approximately four weeks. The BLM scheduled work before the river's spawning season and Greater Sage-grouse nesting restrictions take effect. Engineers will keep all equipment out of the stream bed, and BLM biologists will monitor the site before and after construction.

"The closure ensures public safety and minimizes disturbance to the Marys River riparian area and associated wildlife, including Lahontan Cutthroat Trout and Greater Sage-grouse," said Casey Addy, Wells Field Office manager.

For questions, contact civil engineer Duncan Welch at 775-753-0200 or [email protected].