ABC Techniques Speed Delivery of Michigan Bridge

Projects | August 30, 2023

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A photo of the Jackson Street rail bridge under construction

JACKSON, MI – On August 11, in a matter of hours, the new Jackson Street rail bridge in Michigan was rolled into place using a self-propelled modular transporter (SPMT). The endeavor marks an important milestone as the replacement of the 100-year-old bridge carrying two tracks of MDOT owned rail on which AMTRAK and Norfolk Southern operate nears completion.

“Our success on this project is really a testament to the power of teamwork. The project team worked together seamlessly to build the bridge and roll it into place in a way that reduced traffic disruptions and overall construction times,” said Project Manager Ihab Darwish.

Benesch provided design services for Jackson Street bridge as part of a larger project that also includes the replacement of the nearby Mechanic Street bridge. Precast concrete elements were utilized to reduce substructure construction time and Acceleration Bridge Construction (ABC) erection methods reduced traffic interruptions. The new bridges are expected to improve railroad operations while providing safe facilities for rail, road and nonmotorized users.

The project also called for the reconstruction of the Blackstone Road grade crossing and approaches, replacing approximately 1,300 feet of retaining walls along the railroad tracks, rebuilding and raising approximately 4,000 feet of railroad track, and adding a nonmotorized pathway under the Mechanic Street railroad bridge.

Watch the video below for a timelapse of the Jackson Street Railroad Bridge replacement.