June, 2011 Update
Posted June 15, 2011
Overview and update
Although bridge construction on the project has been delayed since February, 2010, the project continues to move forward and work is planned for the 2011 construction season.
In February 2010, movement was detected at two bridge locations, and subsequently at two additional bridge locations. Since then, ODOT and the Design Builder have been in dispute about responsibility for the correction of the mitigation at these four sites.
ODOT is actively engaging the Design Builder on the best way to finish the project. The terms of the contract make the Design Builder responsible for the design and construction of the project. It is the Design Builder’s responsibility to provide the design for the project. The Design Builder must provide the analysis of the problem and subsequent corrective actions. As the owner, ODOT’s role is to review the Design Builder’s information, using third parties for input, if necessary.
The contract completion date of December, 2011 can not be met. Limited bridge construction and earth work will take place during the current construction season. We have not ruled out a 2012 completion date. Due to many factors, a 2013 completion date is also a possibility.
ODOT is mindful of the significance of this project on this important corridor and the investment that has already been made. ODOT is committed to completing the project and opening the new highway as quickly as is feasible while being good stewards of the taxpayers’ investment in this facility.
ODOT will not compromise long-term safety. The earth movement needs to be understood and resolved before the bridges can be completed. We continue to monitor movement at several project locations. Data collection is continuing. We are developing important trend lines for the settlement and movement occurring at the project site. We will continue to monitor and add data as the season moves through spring and into summer.
Due to the geology and the rain in the
During the winter shutdown, we continued to work with the Design Builder on erosion control and other typical site maintenance requirements. The project is doing well with erosion control. We enjoy a strong working relationship with environmental regulators who have recognized this project’s erosion control, after the 2007 summer re-work, as a success.
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