KAMIAH, Idaho, February 20, 2024:— While it is still snowy and cold in much of the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests, it is never too early to plan for the summer. In anticipation of the coming thaw, the Forests want to share some information about construction projects that will impact your summer travels on the North Fork Ranger District.
The 700 Road reconstruction project towards Smith Ridge will continue again this summer. American Pioneering and Excavation will continue replacing culverts and reconditioning the road as soon as conditions allow, likely in early June. This work will require road closures to ensure public and contractor safety. The road closure will begin at the junction of the 700 road and 4800 road (Salmon Landing Road) and will be in effect Monday through Friday. Access to the Smith Ridge trailhead will be available on weekends.
The 250 road will also have culvert replacement and road reconditioning work from the intersection of the 250 and 247 road to Kelly Forks Work Center. Work is anticipated to begin in early June and last all summer. The road will remain open during the project, but motorists can anticipate delays, some as lengthy as 3-4 hours while travelling this section of the 250 Road. This project will replace approximately 62 culverts and re-establish appropriate drainage from Bungalow to Kelly Forks.
Maintenance work will also take place on the bridge that crosses Kelly Creek where the 255 Road and 851 Road intersect. The bridge will not be closed, but the public should anticipate delays from this project as well.
North Fork District Ranger Andrew Skowlund Said: “Visitors should drive slowly and vigilantly during construction projects. This work, when completed, should improve the visitor experience and enhance environmental conditions in the North Fork District.”
Caption: Road work last summer on the Smith Ridge Road
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