Vandals hit bypass site

SANDPOINT — Vandals have struck at the construction site for the U.S. Highway 95 bypass.

An inflatable bladder used to keep Sand Creek from spilling into work areas was reportedly slashed and traffic cones and candles were thrown down an embankment. Parsons RCI, the Sand Creek Byway’s lead contractor, was also checking for damage to heavy equipment stationed beside the creek.

“It’s under investigation,” Sandpoint Police Chief Mark Lockwood said on Tuesday.

The vandalism was reported on Monday morning, according to Bonner Dispatch records.

“Unfortunately, vandalism is not unheard of,” said Idaho Transportation Department spokeswoman Barbara Babic. She referred further inquiries to Parsons.

Bob Clucas, senior project manager for Parsons, confirmed the bladder was slashed, but added that it could be patched up.

“It’s fixable,” said Clucas.