Yankee Jims Bridge replacement work ramps up, roads remain closed

Work on the Yankee Jims Bridge Replacement Project continues to move forward with construction activity ramping up in recent weeks. Placer County reminds the community that Yankee Jims Road remains closed between Gillis Hill and Shirttail Canyon roads and will stay closed throughout the duration of the project. Progress includes controlled blasting, performed by contractor FlatironDragados and Neil's Controlled Blasting, to break up rocks and earth to make room for a bridge foundation, abutments and roadway approaches. "Because of the remote location with limited access, it's imperative that our contractor close the roads to ensure safety for drivers, workers and the public," said Placer County Engineering Manager Kevin Ordway. The historic Yankee Jims Bridge was built in the 1930s and has a total load capacity of just three tons, or 6,000 pounds. While the one-lane bridge has served the rural community for decades, it is now considered structurally deficient and cannot safely accommodate many modern vehicles or emergency response equipment. Due to its historic significance, the existing bridge will remain in place. A new two-lane arch suspension bridge is being constructed just downstream to improve safety and access for the region. Motorists who typically use Yankee Jims Road to travel between Colfax and Foresthill are detoured to Foresthill Road for the duration of the project. Recreational access in the area will also be restricted during construction.