Smith Rock State Park is slated to get a new, wider pedestrian bridge this summer.

But replacing the current span will cut access to most of the park and its trails and climbing routes for up to four weeks, likely in August.

The exact dates depend on nesting season and streamflow over the Crooked River, according to Oregon State Parks and Recreation. There will be no temporary bridge during construction and wading across the river is discouraged.

“We know that this closure will have an impact on our park users, but our current footbridge must be replaced,” said Park Manager Matt Davey. “Fortunately, we have many areas of the park for visitors to explore that don’t use this bridge.”

The current bridge over the Crooked was built nearly 50 years ago and rebuilt about 30 years ago. The new bridge will measure 8 feet wide — about 2 feet wider than the current bridge — and better accommodate visitors, as well as first responders needed during the park’s frequent rescue operations.

The exact dates of the bridge closure will depend on multiple factors. Construction activity and noise near active raptor nests is not permissible through Aug. 1, unless fledglings have left the nest or those nests have failed.

The in-water work period for the Crooked River is scheduled for July 1 through August 15. This could be extended past Aug. 15, in coordination with other agencies if needed.

Crews plan to begin the initial work in July and continue through September if needed, but the biggest impact to visitors is the 4-week bridge closure. The goal is to complete as much of the bridge construction as possible from Aug. 1-15.

Oregon Parks and Recreation Department will update information on the footbridge closure dates and times on the Smith Rock webpage and through smithrock.com. If you have any questions or concerns, 541-548-7501 or email park manager at Matthew.DAVEY@oprd.oregon.gov.