GLENN COUNTY, Calif. — Over the weekend, Caltrans officially closed the old Butte City Bridge due to safety concerns, redirecting traffic to the newly constructed bridge where one-way traffic control is currently in effect. This measure will operate 24 hours a day until further notice as construction crews work to complete the new bridge.
The decision to close the old bridge was made after monitoring indicated movement in its pier foundations, necessitating immediate action. In response, Caltrans has been clearing debris from the Sacramento River, a result of recent storms and increased water levels, to help protect the old structure.
While the new bridge is still under construction, one-way traffic control will continue to ensure safety. Crews are concentrating on finalizing the asphalt bridge approach slabs and integrating them with the existing Highway 162. Asphalt and related work are scheduled to commence this week.
The old Butte City Bridge will not be reopened and is slated for demolition in the upcoming construction season. Initiated in 2022, this bridge replacement project is part of a $114 million investment aimed at improving infrastructure, with completion expected by 2026, according to Caltrans.
