By I am pleased to report that construction has resumed on our important community connection, the pedestrian/cycling bridge across the Airport Parkway (off Cahill Drive West and north of Hunt Club Road). After a thorough review of the structure it was determined that the best solution to address a concrete deficiency is to tear down the current main tower of the bridge.
Demolition of the tower began the week of April 30, 2012, and you may have already noticed some of the work taking place. As you can imagine, this process will create dust and debris. To mitigate these impacts, a heightened protection system with a scaffolding structure and debris netting was built on the west side of the tower. Traffic control plans are also in place to ensure the safety of workers and residents.
The preliminary schedule presented by the contractor (Louis W. Bray Construction Ltd.) anticipates that rebuilding of the new main tower to its current stage will begin towards the end of May and take approximately 12 weeks. The final schedule and build plan will be reviewed while demolition is underway. Once the structure is rebuilt, the contractor will form and pour the rest of the tower, and complete the bridge deck and remaining construction activities.
As this significant gateway project will serve as a focal point in our city for years to come, I remain committed to ensuring that this connection is built in a safe and timely fashion. I am working closely with City staff and I am assured that they will closely monitor the contractor’s construction of the new tower. I would also like to reaffirm that the contractor is responsible for demolishing and rebuilding the tower at no additional cost to taxpayers.
I am happy that work is resuming on this project and look forward to sending you updates as key milestones occur. Please feel free to contact me with any questions you may have about this project.
