Malheur National Forest to close 16 Rd. due to bridge replacement

By on Wednesday, May 1st, 2024 in Eastern/Southeast Oregon News More Top Stories

JOHN DAY / PRAIRIE CITY – (Press Release from the Malheur National Forest)

The Malheur National Forest will be implementing a temporary road closure on a section of the 1600-000 road for the Big Creek bridge replacement project. This project will be addressing needed bridge replacement and road improvements. Work is planned to begin mid-June through early October.

A temporary closure ensures the safety of the public from construction machinery and the safety of construction employees while completing the bridge work. The detour will be well signed on the ground.

Access to the Big Creek campground will be extremely limited. There may be access via unmaintained roads with high-clearance vehicles, depending on road conditions. Construction noise is expected to be significant at the campground.

Forest Service 1600 road closure locations:

  • On the 1600-000 road at the 1600-924 spur road
  • On the 1600-000 road at the 1648-000 road.

In addition to the Big Creek Bridge there will be two additional bridge closures during this timeframe.

  • Summit Bridge on the 1647-000 road. Access to the Malheur Ford will be via the 1651-000 road.
  • Fopian Bridge on the 1600 road near Short Creek Guard Station. Access to that general area via Prairie City or Unity.

The official detour map will be published soon, in a separate news release. Further details and alternative campground suggestions for your summer recreation enjoyment will be included.

For additional information about the Malheur National Forest, visit www.fs.usda.gov/malheur.