NOTN- Repairs continue on the Mendenhall River Back Loop Bridge after the record glacier lake outburst flood this month caused severe damage, authorities reported.
The flood scoured an area approximately 16 feet deep, 50 feet long, and 120 feet wide, displacing roughly 3,555 cubic yards of material, equivalent to about 300 dump-truck loads.
Since Saturday, Aug. 16, crews have excavated more than 22 feet to reach stable material and begin rebuilding around the undermined but stable bridge structures. Officials said about 5.7 million pounds of rock have been placed to restore the riverbanks and roadway.
If conditions allow, officials are targeting a reopening of the bridge by tomorrow, Aug. 26, with paving to follow depending on crew availability. Authorities urged motorists to be patient, noting that safety and long-term durability guide the reconstruction effort.
