Emergency Personnel Face Delays and Safety Concerns at Edwards Crossing Bridge on North Bloomfield Road

Accident – Death – Obituary News : Emergency personnel face challenges in responding to calls for help in the river canyon on North Bloomfield Road due to an outdated bridge and a sharp hairpin turn. The current bridge at Edwards Crossing can only hold 8,000 pounds, while a standard fire engine typically weighs between 20,000 and 40,000 pounds. As a result, fire trucks and ambulances often experience hour-long delays, which can be life-threatening in emergency situations.

The Nevada County Department of Public Works and consultants from Dokken Engineering are now seeking community input on two alternatives for replacing the bridge, as well as a no-build option. The main objective is to enhance safety while preserving the historical and natural beauty of the area. The Draft Environmental Impact Report (DEIR) provided by Dokken is available for review, and public comments are due by November 14.

The current bridge, built in 1904, is considered “structurally deficient” by Caltrans, the agency responsible for bridge replacement funds in California. The 168-foot bridge, known for its cultural significance, is deteriorating, with peeling green paint and rusting surfaces. It was not designed to support the weight of modern vehicles.

Two alternatives are being considered for a new two-lane bridge over the South Yuba River. The first alternative would construct a 200-foot span bridge, located 60 feet upstream from the existing bridge. Although this option would preserve the current road alignment, it would still create a bottleneck at the hairpin turn. Caltrans has agreed to fund this option, estimated to cost $7 million.

The second alternative, preferred by Supervisor Sue Hoek and various stakeholders, involves building a 500-foot span bridge located 1,000 feet upstream of the existing bridge. This option would straighten the hairpin curve in the road, making it more suitable for emergency vehicles. It would also keep the busy parking area separate, ensuring unimpeded access for fire, evacuation, and rescue efforts. However, the construction cost for this alternative is estimated at $17 million.

Proponents of the second alternative argue that it offers the most benefits. It improves road alignment, enhances emergency vehicle access, minimizes environmental impact, and preserves the area’s aesthetic appeal. However, the cost is significantly higher than the first alternative.

The North San Juan Fire Protection District strongly supports the second alternative, as emergency vehicles must be able to cross the river for mass evacuations and other critical situations. The current bridge’s weight limit hinders their ability to respond quickly and effectively. The district covers a large area and contains over 3,000 residents, making a functional bridge crucial for public safety.

In addition to emergency response challenges, the bridge’s limitations also pose risks for community members. During peak season, North San Juan Fire receives an average of 40 medical calls related to the river. Delays in reaching the scene can result in larger fires and increased danger for visitors and residents in the area.

The urgency to address this issue is underscored by the growing number of people visiting the river and the increasing threat of wildfires. Deputy Fire Chief Tom Browning warns that with current conditions, fires are becoming more extreme, and more homes are being lost. It is crucial to have a bridge that can facilitate efficient emergency response and evacuation efforts.

Sol Henson, a resident living at the top of the canyon, emphasizes the importance of addressing this issue, as his house would be one of the first to be affected by a fire. He urges swift action to prevent potential disasters and protect the lives and properties of those living in the area.

The community’s feedback on the proposed alternatives will play a significant role in determining the future of Edwards Crossing. The ultimate goal is to find a solution that balances safety, functionality, and preservation to ensure the well-being and enjoyment of both residents and visitors for generations to come..