Engineers warn Kelly Toponce bridge may fail; commissioners order temporary closure

Keller & Associates engineer Jake Poulsen told the Caribou County commissioners that the Kelly Toponce bridge over the Portneuf shows structural movement and significant scour and is in a failed condition. "It is failed and could fail catastrophically at any time," Poulsen said during a briefing presented by Zoom.

Poulsen and his hydraulics and bridge team documented movement and recommended immediate restriction of traffic. He provided a high-level replacement estimate of $2,260,000. County Road & Bridge was instructed to close the bridge temporarily and secure the site; Kevin McLain said he would arrange closure and continued coordination with the engineer.

Commissioner Bryce Somsen moved to temporarily close the Kelly Toponce bridge, effective April 14, and the board approved the motion. The closure is intended as an immediate public-safety measure while county staff and consultants develop next steps, which may include permanent repair, replacement, traffic detours and funding analysis.

The board did not commit to a replacement funding source during the meeting; the consultant’s estimate is high-level and further engineering and budgeting steps were requested before any contract or capital decision.