While it was originally hoped to be complete by the end of May, the White River Bridge reopening in Uintah County has been delayed and is now estimated to reopen on June 29th. According to Uintah County Road Department Manager Bryan Meier, the delay is the result of a construction error. “The approach slab on the south side of the bridge was set too high, requiring crews to tear it out and re-pour the slab,” shares Meier. “The new approach slab should be poured this week, but needs at least 14 days to cure before traffic will be allowed on the bridge.” Meier’s press release also explained the following: The cost for demolishing the improperly laid approach slab and laying the new one will be borne by the contractor with no cost passed on to the county or to the Utah Department of Transportation. Uintah County approached the federal Joint Highway Committee in 2017 for funds to replace the bridge and was awarded a $2,522,713 grant. To receive the grant, Uintah County must pay a 6.77 percent match ($183,190), bringing the total cost of the project to $2,705,903. The Ouray Bottom Project, which is repairing a 1.3 mile section of Seep Ridge Road that floods when the Green River overflows its banks, will still be ongoing when the bridge opens to traffic again. Drivers may experience delays on Seep Ridge Road due to the road construction. The Ouray Bottom Project is scheduled to be done in August.
