JACKSON, Wyo. – The Wyoming Department of Transportation (WYDOT) is currently working with the United States Forest Service (USFS) to schedule some bridge repair work in the Hoback Canyon.
The bridge is experiencing what engineer’s call “scouring” or a change or removal of channel material around bridge abutments or piers. It is usually caused by swift moving water that scoops out holes around the base of the structure, compromising its integrity. WYDOT has determined that maintenance on the bridge is needed, which will include some slope protection work and installing rip-rap on the foundations of the structure to alleviate the “scouring.”
The bridge is located at Stinking Springs, at the western mouth of the Hoback Canyon near Bryan Flats. It is a crucial transportation connection between Pinedale and Jackson, and as one of three main routes in and out of Jackson. In addition, the bridge spans the Hoback River, which is a protected wild and scenic river.
“The Wild and Scenic River Act requires us to be conscientious of the water flows and the surrounding landscape. We do not want to drastically affect the aesthetics or the physical characteristics of the river,” WYDOT District Engineer Keith Compton said.
WYDOT has relied on the USFS to provide timely feedback and guidance on how to best meet those requirements.
“We appreciate the forest service’s expertise on a project like this and rely on their knowledge to help guide the process,” Compton added.
Work on the bridge will take place the summer of 2020 as part of a district-wide bridge rehabilitation project.
