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Dr. Fine Bridge Replacement

This project will replace the Dr. Fine Bridge over the Smith River on U.S. 101 north of Crescent City. Built in 1940, the existing bridge is near the end of its useful life. A new bridge will better accommodate vehicles, pedestrians and bicyclists.

Wide view of Dr. Fine Bridge in Del Norte County. The bridge spans across the Smith River.

Existing bridge built in 1940

Project Update | April 2023

Proposed Designs

Simulated view of bridge looking south Simulated view of proposed Dr Fine Bridge replacement in Del Norte County. View is from the south side of the Smith River looking north toward the bridge.
Simulated view of pedestrian crossing Simulated view of the proposed pedestrian crossing on Dr. Fine Bridge in Del Norte County. Two people stand and look west over the Smith River.
Simulated view of bike lane Rendering of the proposed design for the Dr. Fine Bridge replacement, showing the widened bike lane.

Minimal Traffic Impacts

Traffic impacts will be minimal while we replace the bridge. The speed limit is currently reduced to 45 mph. In fall 2023, traffic is expected to be diverted onto a temporary bridge east of the existing structure with a reduction to 25 mph. The temporary bridge will be used as the old bridge is demolished and the new bridge is built. The speed limit will be reduced for the duration of the project.

Timeline

Barring unforeseen circumstances, construction is scheduled to be complete by the end of 2025. 

Boat Access

During the summer seasons from June through October, there will be no boat access beneath the bridge. Additionally, boat launching via the informal access point under the bridge at South Bank Road will be restricted. Individuals that typically access the waters underneath this bridge are encouraged to share this information with their peers.

Documents

For more information, contact:

Project Manager
David Melendrez
(707) 441-3979, TTY 711

Public Information (Media Inquiries)
Myles Cochrane
(707) 498-4272, TTY 711

Last reviewed: March 2023

Social Media Updates

Follow District 1 on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, and search #DrFineBridge for the latest updates.
Click on the images below to view original posts. (External Site)

 

Screenshot of Facebook post that reads "Did you know that traffic impacts will be minimal while we replace the Dr. Fine Bridge on U.S. 101 over the Smith River in Del Norte County? With construction likely beginning in October and ending sometime in 2025, travelers should only anticipate a speed limit reduction to 25 MPH for the duration of the project. In the summer or fall of 2023, it is anticipated that traffic will be diverted onto a temporary bridge east of the existing structure as the old bridge is demolished and the new bridge is built. The speed limit will be reduced for the duration of the project. The current Dr. Fine Bridge was built in 1940 and is near the end of its useful life. During the summer construction seasons, there will be no boat access beneath the bridge as Caltrans has been reaching out to the boating communities to let them know. It’s also worth noting that Caltrans has received over a million dollars toward this project courtesy of SB 1. the Road Repair and Accountability Act of 2017. To learn more about SB 1 projects in your community, visit rebuildingca.ca.gov #RebuildingCA"