LEWISTON, ID – The rehabilitation of the Clearwater Memorial Bridge in Lewiston has been recognized with a regional America’s Transportation Award, announced Wednesday, July 23, during the Western Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (WASHTO) annual meeting in Missoula, Montana.

The Idaho Transportation Department’s (ITD) project earned recognition in the “Best Use of Technology & Innovation” category for its use of robotic arms to tie rebar during bridge deck assembly. The technology improved both safety and efficiency, allowing the project to be completed more quickly and reducing physical strain on workers.

Originally built in 1951, the Clearwater Memorial Bridge underwent a major retrofit beginning in 2023, reaching substantial completion in late 2024. The improvements were aimed at enhancing safety, improving traffic flow, and supporting economic growth in the region.

“This innovation saved both time and money,” ITD said in a statement, praising the use of modern robotics in construction for helping crews avoid repetitive, physically demanding tasks.

AASHTO Executive Director Jim Tymon highlighted the project as an example of the value of robust federal transportation funding. “The America’s Transportation Awards shine a spotlight on the vital projects state DOTs deliver for their communities,” Tymon said. “Projects like these show how state DOTs are transforming communities.”

The Clearwater Memorial Bridge project was one of 36 submitted by 13 western states. Top regional winners will advance to the national competition this fall, where projects will compete for the Grand Prize and the People’s Choice Award. Both national winners will be announced in November at AASHTO’s annual meeting in Salt Lake City, Utah.

Winning projects receive $10,000 to donate to a scholarship fund or charitable cause of their choice.