Utilizing accelerated bridge construction techniques and temporary operating systems allowed the bridges to remain fully operational for both rail and marine traffic throughout all phases of construction. PCL identified critical construction operations to upgrade the bridge machinery, developing a plan to execute the work during those bridge closures, allowing work to be completed in the shortest amount of time with the least disruption to marine traffic.

Photo courtesy Tom Owen/PCL Civil Constructors Inc.

With the existing swing bridges nearing the end of their serviceable lives, the team studied maintenance logs and interviewed bridge operators and crews, inspecting and upgrading where necessary to deliver three bridges with remote operation and automation, improving bridge efficiency and reducing critical manpower resources needed for bridge operation.

Photo courtesy Tom Owen/PCL Civil Constructors Inc.

The project team began planning months in advance of the work, expediting the project planning process to help improve quality and reduce the overall budget before completing as much pre-closure work as possible.

Photo courtesy Tom Owen/PCL Civil Constructors Inc.

Judges noted the time and effort of the project, and specifically lauded the pre-closure work, including the removal of rivet connections and installation of temporary bolted connections to be able to execute work outside of the closure window. Each bridge also required crews to encapsulate lead-based paint, including the proper practices for mitigation, removal and disposal of hazardous material, and the three bridges were then cleaned and painted with high-performance epoxy coating system with excellent resilience to saltwater exposure.

PCL had to coordinate with USACE, local fire departments, sheriff’s offices, businesses and marinas months in advance of construction work. That proved vital to staying on schedule for the $9.9-million project, which was completed on time and budget between November 2019 and December 2021.