Major Construction Project for Replacement of Lindsay C. Warren Bridge

Artist's conception of the new Lindsay C. Warren Bridge showing enhanced features for traffic safety and flow.

News Summary

The North Carolina Department of Transportation has announced a $450 million contract awarded to Skanska USA for the replacement of the aging Lindsay C. Warren Bridge over the Alligator River. This new bridge aims to enhance traffic flow and safety, addressing reliability issues faced by the current bridge, which is structurally deficient. The construction plans include a two-lane, fixed-span structure, with an expected completion date in fall 2029, promising improved connectivity and economic benefits for the region.

Major Construction Project Announced: The Replacement of Lindsay C. Warren Bridge

Big news in the world of infrastructure as the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) has awarded a significant contract for the replacement of the aging Lindsay C. Warren Bridge over the Alligator River. The contract, which amounts to a hefty $450 million, has been entrusted to Skanska USA, a company recognized for its expertise in large-scale construction projects.

A Bridge with History

Built in 1960, the Lindsay C. Warren Bridge is more than just a structure; it has been the lifeline connecting Tyrrell and Dare counties, situated prominently along U.S. Route 64. Unfortunately, this venerable bridge is now showing its age, with numerous reports of mechanical failures leading to inconvenient detours for motorists that stretch up to 99 miles.

Presently, this swing-span bridge has been rated as “structurally deficient”, although officials maintain that it is not unsafe and is subject to rigorous inspections and maintenance. Bridging access to the popular Outer Banks — which attracts over 5 million visitors annually — the current bridge’s frequent reliability issues emphasize the urgent need for the new structure.

New Construction Plans

The forthcoming bridge will be a two-lane, fixed-span structure located just north of the existing one. This new design aims to enhance traffic flow and safety, especially since this route serves a crucial role during hurricane evacuations. Construction work, including the critical phase of piling driving, will kick off in the upcoming weeks.

The new bridge sports an ambitious design, featuring two 12-foot travel lanes, 8-foot shoulders, and dedicated bicycle access to promote a well-rounded infrastructure for varied kinds of commuters.

Construction Timeline and Impact

This construction endeavor is a massive undertaking that represents not just an improved connection between communities but also a significant economic boost. With an expected completion date in fall 2029, the new bridge is poised to become a vital artery in regional transportation. Meanwhile, the demolition of the old bridge is scheduled to begin in spring 2030.

Environmental planning and preliminary design phases were effectively completed between early 2021 and late 2022, with the final designs being finalized by winter 2023. As part of the assessment, in July 2024, 11 test piles were driven into the riverbed to ensure optimal soil conditions for the construction.

Funding and Support

Financial backing for this ambitious project is partly supplied by a $110 million grant from the Federal Highway Administration, made available through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. This funding underscores the federal government’s commitment to improving transportation infrastructure across the nation.

The new bridge will feature a fixed height of 65 feet and will provide a wide 140 feet of horizontal clearance in one of its channels, allowing for easier navigation for the over 4,000 boats that pass through each year. These design features are expected to address major flow and safety concerns associated with the current bridge.

A Change for the Better

The NCDOT acknowledges that maintaining the existing bridge impacts its reliability and connectivity to surrounding areas, including Columbia, Manns Harbor, and Manteo. As such, the news of a new bridge has been met with welcome relief for both local residents and visitors who rely on this critical pathway.

In conclusion, while the Lindsay C. Warren Bridge has served its purpose over the last 65 years, the impending construction of a modern, durable bridge symbolizes not only a connection across the Alligator River but also the hope for greater safety and efficiency in North Carolina’s transportation infrastructure.