The Bureau of Reclamation announces completion of the Old Camp Nine Bridge removal project at New Melones Reservoir. Located on Camp Nine Road, about 8 miles east of Vallecito, California, the old bridge spanned the upper arm of the Stanislaus River where it enters New Melones Reservoir, just below Pacific Gas & Electric Company's Stanislaus Afterbay Dam.

The project was completed on Wednesday, December 3, 2008, on-time and on-budget, without any adverse effects to the environment, including the river and the reservoir. The work was completed by the contractor, Accord Engineering of Irvine, California.

The area surrounding the Old Camp Nine Bridge is no longer closed to recreation and public access during demolition. Construction crews have completed work, removing all equipment and debris from the work site. The old bridge was closed to vehicular traffic since the mid-1980s, when the new Camp Nine Bridge was built to span the newly constructed New Melones Reservoir. The old bridge had suffered extensive damage from fire, flood, vandalism, and general deterioration. Demolition of the bridge removed a public safety hazard while providing for protection of natural and cultural resources in the area.

For more information on the Old Camp Nine Bridge Removal project, please contact the New Melones Resource Manager, Ms. Peggi Brooks, at 209-536-9094, extension 211, or e-mail pbrooks@mp.usbr.gov.