Photo courtesy of Arizona Department of TransportationThe rehabilitation of an Interstate 15 bridge in Arizona has won an award from the American Public Works Association, which cited the project’s creativity and cooperation.
The bridge over the Virgin River Gorge in northwestern Arizona was named APWA project of the year in the $25 million to $75 million category. The $30 million upgrade to the 50-year-old bridge involved replacing girders, decks and railing and widening the roadway. The Arizona Department of Transportation, contractor Pulice-Wadsworth Brothers Joint Venture and consultant Jacobs faced several challenges on the project, including the area’s rugged terrain and remote location.
“The bridge stands 100 feet above the Virgin River in a narrow canyon, requiring specialized equipment to work in tight spaces,” an ADOT news release says. “ADOT and its partners also worked closely with agencies including the Bureau of Land Management, Arizona Game and Fish Department, Arizona State Land Department and Environmental Protection Agency to safeguard the river.”
The Virgin River Bridge No. 6 rehabilitation has also been named International Partnering Institute Partnered Project of the Year and has received the Marvin M. Black Partnering Excellence Award as part of the Alliant Build America Awards.
