Pedestrian bridge closed south of Riverton

Instability of a pier on a pedestrian bridge across the Little Wind River south of Riverton has forced the closure of the bridge to pedestrians.

The pedestrian bridge was closed until further notice Wednesday morning, Feb. 22. The bridge is south of Riverton along a pedestrian pathway where it crosses the Little Wind River between the City of Riverton and Beaver Creek Housing. It is near the 789 Casino.

Wyoming Department of Transportation resident engineer Robert Scheidemantel said the mid-February thaw in Fremont County resulted in ice building under the pedestrian bridge on the two piers. "We're not exactly sure when the damage to the pier occurred, but the river ice broke loose and ice flows from throughout the river system hit the piers as they moved down the Little Wind River."

"When the water recedes in the Little Wind River, a diving crew from WYDOT will be inspecting the pier to look for damages caused by recent ice flows," said Scheidemantel.

WYDOT is urging pedestrians to use care in crossing the Little Wind River on the existing WYO 789 highway bridge.