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Boise Broadway Bridge reopens next week

Posted at 5:48 PM, Sep 02, 2016
and last updated 2016-09-02 20:03:46-04

The detour signs will soon be taken down near Boise's Broadway Bridge.

Next Friday, Sept. 9 at 1 p.m., traffic will be flowing once again.

Not only will all lanes of traffic be open along the bridge but pedestrians can take a stroll on the sidewalks and bike lanes will be ready to go with full access to the greenbelt.

The 9-month detour is paying off with the project's completion on schedule.

"We're very pleased about the opening, and we thank everyone for their patience throughout the construction process," says Jennifer Gonzalez, spokeswoman for the Idaho Transportation Department.

If the state transportation department had done the work in separate phases, Gonzalez says it would have taken 18-24 months to complete.

Those who have been a part of the project are pleased with the final product.

"The original bridge, it was a much more narrow structure. There was limited greenbelt access," Gonzalez says. "This is a very large structure in comparison."

It's welcoming news for nearby businesses who are gearing up for their busy season.

"I think it's a great location, especially for football season," says Cassandra Cooper, a server at Pat's Thai  Kitchen.

Cooper says summer tends to be slow for restaurants. They look forward to new customers walking through the door.

"Pat's Thai Kitchen has fresh ingredients, high quality service and the owners, husband and wife, do all the cooking," Cooper says. "So, you know it's going to be the same every time you come in."

Heads up for next week, activity in the work zone will increase ahead of the opening ceremony at 10:30 a.m.

Idaho Transportation Department Director Brian Ness, Boise Mayor Dave Bieter, Boise State University President Dr. Robert Kustra and other officials will be there.

Limited parking for the event will be available at Julia Davis Park and Boise State University. If possible, attendees are encouraged to walk or ride their bikes to the ceremony.