The Maryland Transportation Authority (MDTA) this week officially initiated the first steps of rebuilding the Francis Scott Key bridge in Baltimore.
Now through spring, crews are conducting pre-construction surveying on the land and water surrounding the site of the former bridge. The work will consist of taking soil samples and mapping the subsurface waterways of the Patapsco River, which will inform the design of the new structure.
“This is a monumental project for the region, and we’re committed to keeping the public informed every step of the way,” said Chairman Paul J. Wiedefeld, Maryland transportation secretary and MDTA chairman in a statement.
The surveying acts as a support measure for the larger Progressive Design Rebuild project. Throughout the pre-construction period, the MDTA is working alongside Kiewit Infrastructure Co., who were announced as the project’s contractors in August.
Residents will eventually be able to see numerous vehicles on the bank of the Patapsco, including boring rigs, which will be situated on barges on the river, to take samples up to 200 feet underwater.
On land, people can expect to spot some unusual construction tools—drones. The devices will help with aerial surveying of the area in addition to traditional methods.
There will be minimal noise impacts or traffic disruptions throughout the surveying process. Construction items will be transported with tugboats to ensure clear roadways. However, temporary overnight road closures around the reconstruction area are a possibility.
As for environmental impact, Jim Harkness, MDTA chief engineer, told Avenue News that disturbances are likely.
“Construction activities almost always impact the environment,” Harkness said. “We have to apply for and uphold all permit requirements issued by regulatory agencies, and we are going to work with our contractor to make sure that we do that.”
After the initial work, Harkness said to expect more pre-construction processes in the spring.
Source: Avenue News, Newsbreak.com
