02:47 PM MDT on Tuesday, April 27, 2004

Associated Press

BOISE -- The historic Rainbow Bridge across the Payette River in west-central Idaho will be restricted to one lane starting on Monday. The restriction will last until Friday.

The Idaho Department of Transportation will be conducting an inspection and speeds will be reduced through the narrow work zone.

The inspection is part of the Rainbow Bridge Restoration project.

Over the years, exposure to the elements has caused Rainbow Bridge to deteriorate.

The Rainbow is one of the most photographed arched bridges in the state, crossing the deep Payette River canyon.

The restoration project will include replacing the existing ornate stone bridge rails and stone work.

It will also get a new road surface.

Restoration of the arch, piers, and columns is scheduled to begin during the summer of 2006.