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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.

PLEASE NOTE: Higher water levels during the rainy season may hide potential hazards under Dr. Fine Bridge. Please avoid this area for your safety.

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

Existing bridge built in 1940

A temporary bridge is installed over the Smith River in Del Norte County. A crane is located on a platform in the river. A forest stretches beyond the bridge as the river winds its way into the mountains.

Temporary bridge over the Smith River

Proposed Designs

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 the proposed pedestrian crossing on Dr. Fine Bridge in Del Norte County. Two people stand and look west over the Smith River.  Rendering of the proposed design for the Dr. Fine Bridge replacement; showing the widened bike lane.  
Proposed replacement bridge Proposed pedestrian crossing Proposed widened bike lane

Minimal Traffic Impacts

Traffic has shifted to a temporary bridge. The speed limit on the temporary bridge has been reduced to 25 mph.

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 2025

Social Media Updates

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

Aerial photo of Dr. Fine Bridge in Del Norte County. and link to Facebook post reading "DR. FINE BRIDGE UPDATE: Traffic shifted to a temporary bridge Tuesday as we continue work to replace U.S. 101's Dr. Fine Bridge over the Smith River in Del Norte County. The speed limit on the temporary bridge has been reduced to 25 mph. "