In June 2025, an Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) inspection revealed wood rot and significant structural issues in the Buckhorn Bridge near Golden, Idaho. The aging bridge was considered at risk of collapse and so was immediately closed to most traffic. Temporary supports were installed, but only to maintain limited access for residents and construction workers in the short term. As the bridge sits on a key transport for residents from Highway 14 across the South Fork Clearwater River, a replacement was required as soon as possible. A permanent bridge from Acrow was deemed the most effective replacement option. The modular steel structure provided durability and safety with a long service life, while offering a rapid installation solution to restore access for impacted residents.

The bridge components were delivered to project contractor Debco Construction, a local contractor from nearby Orofino, Idaho, who removed the damaged wooden structure, and then assembled the new single-lane bridge. Once built, it was pushed into place with a cantilever launch method.

The new bridge is 170 feet (51.82m) long and 13.78 feet (4.2m) wide. Its plain steel deck was designed to accommodate a 4” asphalt overlay, and it was designed to HL-93 per AASHTO LRFD specifications. An Acrow field service representative supplied specialized on-site technical support for site preparation, assembly, and launch activities. After completing all ancillary works, the new permanent bridge was opened to traffic in January 2026.

The project’s successful collaboration and rapid delivery earned a Top Gold Award at the 2025 ITD/AGC Excellence in Construction Partnering Awards. The honor was presented to Debco Construction, Idaho County, the Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) Bridge Section, along with Acrow and other project partners, for the Buckhorn Creek Road Bridge Replacement. The annual awards program is sponsored by ITD and the Idaho Associated General Contractors (AGC).