Updated as of February 9
Work continues on the Gilbert Road Bridge at an accelerated schedule with a goal of reopening travel over the Salt River, from Thomas Road north of Loop 202 to State Route 87 this summer. Following last year’s historic rainfall and water releases by the Salt River Project (SRP), which heavily damaged the low-water crossing, the Maricopa County Department of Transportation (MCDOT) fast-tracked the bridge construction schedule, moving its reopening to an earlier date.
Construction crews have been working nights and weekends and have achieved several major milestones including drilling twenty-two shafts for the bridge piers and installing precast girders along with preparations in advance of pouring the new deck later this spring. The project also includes the installation of a new storm drain and a new 36″ waterline as part of SRP’s water delivery system.
One important feature of the new bridge construction includes abutment protection. The design uses cement treated alluviam (CSA) at each end of the new bridge to protect it from future river flows. The CSA is about 60 feet deep and will guard the bridge from catastrophic flood events and help to ensure that the new bridge provides safe and efficient travel for many decades.
Weather issues are always a concern because they can change construction activity and schedule. MCDOT will continue monitorstorm systems and coordinate with SRP for potential water releases through the completion of the project. For additional project information, please contact MCDOT at: MCDOTProjects@maricopa.gov, or at (602) 506-3342
