Thursday July 24, 2025
FOX 40 —
Placer County is close to removing metal and concrete bridge debris from the American River.
Video above: Busy weekend for rescue crews on Sacramento area rivers
The Board of Supervisors authorized the Department of Public Works to finalize a contract with Myers and Sons Construction for the removal of remnants from the old State Route 49 Bridge on Tuesday.
This debris has been in the American River for 60 years following the failure of Hell Hole Dam during a weather event in 1964.
“We’re encouraged to be moving closer to the physical removal of this debris,” said senior civil engineer Cheyenne Toney. “It’s a complex process, but our goal remains clear: to remove these materials in a safe, environmentally responsible way.”
The decision to leave the debris in the river was made after Congress approved plans for the Auburn Dam project. However, the dam was never built.
“Really, it’s disappointing to see this kind of debris in this stunning, pristine water,” District 5 Supervisor Cindy Gustafson said. “I’m sorry it’s taken this long.”
For more information on the project, you can visit the Protect American River Canyons website.