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When will the new bridge be completed?
The
first bridge, an eastbound structure, opened in
July 2009. Final completion for the project is
scheduled for 2011.
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How will the new bridge look?
You can click
here
to view an artist's conception of the new Twin Span
Bridge. The new bridge will consist of two parallel
structures, each 5.5 miles long. Both bridges will
be sixty feet wide and accommodate three 12-foot
travel lanes. There will be 12-foot shoulders on
either side of the travel lanes. The new bridge
will be 21 feet higher than the existing Twin Span
Bridge, and approximately 30 feet above the water
level. The bridge will feature an 80 foot high-rise
section to provide vertical clearance for marine
traffic on Lake Pontchartrain.
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What will happen to the existing bridge?
Once the new bridge is completed, the current bridge
will be demolished.
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What is the total project cost, and who is proving
the money?
The total cost for the new Twin Span Bridge is
approximately $800 million. The project is being
funded solely by federal tax dollars from the
Federal Highway Administration.
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Who will be performing the work?
The Louisiana Department of Transportation and
Development will administer the project. Project
activities will be coordinated with the Federal
Highway Administration. Boh Bros. Construction Co.
of New Orleans is building the level portion and the
approaches for the new bridge. The 80 foot
high-rise section is being constructed by
Traylor/Kiewit/Massman Joint Venture. Volkert
Construction Services will provide construction
engineering and inspection services in support of
the DOTD.
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How will traffic be impacted by the construction
work?
For the most part work will take place off the
roadway (Interstate 10) so traffic impacts should be
minimal. As with all projects of this magnitude and
complexity there could occasionally be an increase
in traffic congestion. The construction team will
work diligently to maintain traffic flow in the
corridor.
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Will the navigation channel be open to marine
traffic during construction?
Yes. Impacts to marine traffic will be few, if any.
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How can I stay current on information about
construction activities?
You can e-mail questions and comments directly to
the construction team at
twinspanbridge@volkert.com. When you write you
can request your e-mail address be added to the
distribution list for free e-mail updates. You may
also contact the DOTD customer service line at
1-877-4LA-DOTD.
