Skanska Awarded $450 Million Contract for Bridge Replacement

Construction of a new bridge over a river in North Carolina

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News Summary

Skanska has secured a $450 million contract to replace the aging Lindsay C. Warren Bridge in North Carolina. The new bridge, featuring a fixed-span design, will improve access to the Outer Banks and enhance traffic flow while accommodating river traffic for the local fishing industry. The project received a $110 million grant from the Federal Highway Administration and is expected to be completed by fall 2029.

Skanska Secures $450 Million Contract for Cutting-Edge Bridge Replacement

In an exciting development for infrastructure in North Carolina, construction giant Skanska has been awarded a substantial $450 million contract for the replacement of the aging Lindsay C. Warren Bridge. This ambitious project involves the construction of a modern fixed-span, high-rise bridge along U.S. 64, spanning the picturesque Alligator River. The new structure aims to dramatically improve access to the highly popular Outer Banks, a crucial destination for both residents and tourists.

From Swing Bridge to Modern Marvel

Originally built in 1960, the old swing bridge is now rated as “structurally deficient”, illustrating the pressing need for a replacement. The new bridge is strategically being constructed just north of the current structure, which will remain operational throughout the construction phase, ensuring that no gaps in connectivity impede traffic.

Designed for durability and efficiency, the replacement bridge will feature two 12-foot travel lanes accompanied by 8-foot breakdown lanes, catering to the ever-growing traffic demands. With a height of 65 feet from the water’s channel to the underside of the bridge and equipped with 4.5-foot safety railings, the new infrastructure will facilitate unimpeded marine and vehicular traffic, a significant upgrade from its predecessor that has mechanical delays.

A Vital Link for Evacuations and Traffic Flow

The existing swing-span bridge stands as a critical link for hurricane evacuations, ensuring smooth access for emergency services and residents alike. Currently, when repairs are in order, drivers face a daunting 99-mile detour. The innovative design of the new bridge eliminates the need for a movable section, which translates into smoother traffic flow and fewer delays.

On average, an estimated 4,000 boats navigate the current swing span each year, and the advanced design of the new bridge anticipates accommodating river traffic better, which is essential for the local fishing and boating industries.

Federal Support Fuels Construction

The project is significantly bolstered by a $110 million grant from the Federal Highway Administration as part of the 2021 Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, highlighting the federal commitment to enhancing the nation’s transportation infrastructure. Construction officially commenced with the first concrete pile driven on February 18, marking a major step toward realizing this long-awaited improvement.

With an expected completion date set for fall 2029, the Skanska project team is poised to deliver a state-of-the-art bridge that enhances not only safety but also supports economic growth in the region. Environmental and preliminary design work has already taken place between early 2021 and late 2022, laying the groundwork for this extensive undertaking.

Looking Ahead

The replacement of the Lindsay C. Warren Bridge promises to usher in a new era of connectivity and accessibility for the Outer Banks. As this project progresses, the improvements will become a cornerstone of local infrastructure, ensuring that both residents and visitors can traverse the area with ease. Construction is set to continue at a rapid pace, with the demolition of the current bridge slated for spring 2030. To sum up, the future of North Carolina’s connectivity looks brighter than ever as work on this transformative bridge continues.