(Tradeslive.com, March 3, 2011) A multi-modal bridge spanning the Arkansas River on westbound I-244 in Tulsa has the green light to begin. The Oklahoma Transportation Commission approved a contract to Manhattan Road and Bridge Co. on Monday to replace this structurally deficient bridge with a double-decker bridge. The cost of construction is $64 million, the cost of construction time is $14 million bringing the total bid to $78 million.
The new structure will incorporate highway lanes on the top side, with two dedicated future rail lines and an area for bicycle and pedestrian traffic underneath.
“The replacement of this bridge is critical due to its deteriorating conditions,” Oklahoma Department of Transportation Director Gary Ridley said. “This double-decker bridge is the first of its kind in the state, and opens the door to endless possibilities for expanding transportation in this region.”
The project cost is a combination of federal funds and received a nearly $50 million federal TIGER (Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery) Grant in February 2010. This grant cycle was extremely competitive, with more than 1,400 applications submitted nationwide. The I-244 multi-modal bridge is considered one of the top projects in the country to receive this funding.
The existing westbound I-244 bridge will be removed and the new bridge built along the current alignment. During construction westbound traffic will detour onto the eastbound I-244 bridge which will accommodate two-way traffic. The existing eastbound bridge is scheduled for replacement in 2013, although the $30 million estimated project cost is not fully funded at this time.
Work is expected to begin in mid-spring 2011, and the project is scheduled to complete in two years. Information on the project will be posted in the Traffic Advisories section of www.okladot.state.ok.us.
All material and images are courtesy of Oklahoma Department of Transportation
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