Expanding to three travel lanes and a shoulder in each direction greatly opened up one of the most heavily traveled sections of highway in the state. Crews were able to perform the massive reconstruction project without any complete shutdowns of U.S. 49. Plans required two lanes of traffic to be open in each direction during the day.
“The newly expanded roadway greatly reduces traffic congestion while enhancing safety and local commute times,” Simmons said. “Commercial traffic moving through the area will now experience a more predictable and simple journey.”
Work began in November 2017. The $253-million project was awarded to W.G. Yates & Son Construction Company of Jackson.
The project also included the widening of I-20 eastbound and I-55 northbound for the new bridge and roadway alignment ramps. Other significant work included asphalt paving along I-20 eastbound and I-55 northbound, slide repairs, drainage and slope pavement improvements, and upgrades to electrical and ITS components.
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| SITECH Tri-Rivers |
The new bridge is composed of some of the largest concrete beams in the state. Spanning the railroad are 84-inch tall, prestressed beams, approximately 170 feet long and weighing over 200,000 pounds each. This was the first project in the department’s history to utilize a self-propelled modular transport system to set the beams.
“Despite starting at the beginning of the pandemic, I commend all crews for being able to complete this critical project on schedule without any complete shutdowns of I-20,” Simmons said. “The new bridge and other work items have made this vital cross country route a safer corridor for local and commercial traffic.”
The $42.3-million project was awarded to Key, LLC of Madison. Work began in March 2020.
Crews have successfully completed pile driving efforts and are currently pouring concrete at both sites. Widening of shoulders at the 65th Avenue bridge and SR 19/39 sites is underway. The eastbound bridge has been removed and the contractor is in the process of completing the new pavement structure on the roadway fill.
The $24.4-million design-build project was awarded to Key Construction Company with an anticipated completion date of summer 2023. The project aims to enhance safety and efficiency for motorists and commercial traffic throughout Meridian and eastern Mississippi.
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| Nichols Fleet Equipment |
Traffic has steadily increased along the SR 19 corridor. Since 2017, the average annual daily traffic along this stretch of roadway has increased from 5,600 to 6,600 and is still rising. In addition to expanding to four lanes, the new grading will offer smoother riding conditions, showing significant progress throughout the area.
Several local roads will be realigned to tie into the new four-lane roadway, making it a safer and more convenient travel experience. The $36-million contract was awarded to W.G. Yates and Sons Construction. Work is anticipated to be completed fall 2023.
