Re: SVRy S wye

Dan is correct in that the bulk of the cost is the bridge construction. We have some I-beams we hoped could be used to span the river, but with the length of the span there is calculated to be too much deflection. So, without a mid-stream piling, they cannot be used. Up stream on the Powder R. the Bull Trout are protected, and NO mid-stream pilings are allowed. At the location of the S-Wye bridge it is still questionable as to whether or not mid-stream pilings can be used. I don't know if that question has been answered yet or not.

In addition to the bridge, a culvert will be needed on an irrigation ditch located a few feet south of the river channel. The old ROW (tail track) is over grown with Ponderosa and will need to be renovated. The approaches can be done by volunteer labor and existing materials since they are essentially flat to the river. Putting in the approaches may have to wait until final bridge height and location is determined. The old wood post bridge pilings are still on each side of the river and we prefer not to disturb them if at all possible. We'll just have to wait and see.

Grant applications are underway that will help pay for the higher than expected cost.