Caldwell narrows Indian Creek bridges to limit weight
New barriers restrict foot traffic after inspections found aging wood and corroded steel in structures built in 2008.
By Justin Brooks ·
Pedestrians crossing Indian Creek in downtown Caldwell must now navigate narrower paths on the city's pedestrian bridges. Metal barriers have been installed to reduce the width of the walkways, limiting how many people can stand on the structures at once. City engineer John Prebonick explained that the barriers act as a precaution to prevent excessive weight from accumulating on the decks.
The bridges were constructed in 2008 using untreated timber salvaged from a local building's roofing system. The wooden trusses were not designed for outdoor exposure and had an expected lifespan of about 10 years. By 2026, the structures had exceeded that timeline by eight years. Visible wear and tear prompted Mayor Eric Phillips to order an inspection of the bridges.
The inspection identified aging wood and corroded steel components. Prebonick noted that years of weather exposure, combined with salt used to de-ice the bridges, accelerated the corrosion of the steel. Despite ongoing maintenance, the material degradation required the city to act to ensure safety.
A load analysis conducted by the city determined the bridges can continue to be used at a reduced capacity of 82 pounds per square foot. The barriers are designed to stop large groups from gathering on a single bridge and exceeding that weight limit. Pedestrians can still cross safely, but they must pass through the restricted width.
City officials are now evaluating options for the future of the bridges. Potential solutions include repairing the current structures, rehabilitating them, or replacing them entirely. The first step in this process is developing a request for proposals to better understand the scope and cost of each option.
An initial estimate for a complete replacement is roughly $2.6 million. Officials emphasized that this figure is only one possibility and the final cost could be lower depending on the chosen solution. A key factor in that decision is the condition of the existing concrete abutments. Prebonick stated that the city must evaluate whether those abutments can support a full replacement before committing to a specific path forward.
No final repair or replacement option has been selected yet. City officials expect to have a concrete plan of action in place within the next two years.
