Milwaukee River Crossing Gets Award-Winning Improvements

Awards, Projects | May 05, 2023

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A photo of the Milwaukee Michigan Street Vertical Lift Bridge over the Milwaukee Bridge

MILWAUKEE, WI – When deterioration threatened the safety of the Michigan Street Vertical Lift Bridge, one of the busiest crossings over the Milwaukee River, the City sought to rehabilitate it. The repairs and safety improvements restored the critical connection to downtown Milwaukee and earned the project recognition from the American Council of Engineering Companies – Wisconsin.

At the chapter’s Engineering Excellence Awards gala on April 28, Benesch received a State Finalist Award for leading the construction management of the rehabilitation and serving as project liaison.

“I’m proud of our team’s work on this iconic Milwaukee structure,” said Project Manager Bill Zippel. “The rehabilitation not only extended the life of the bridge but also provides a safer, more visually appealing crossing for pedestrians, cyclists and drivers alike while complementing the area’s natural surrounding environment and waterway.”

Benesch led the construction management for the rehabilitation of the Michigan Street Bridge and served as the liaison for all involved parties. Upgrades included replacing the bridge deck, a full replacement of the mechanical and hydraulic power systems for lifting the bridge and the addition of remote operation capabilities. Safety features were also enhanced to protect users from getting too close when the bridge is in operation.

A photo of the Michigan Street project team with ACEC award
Benesch’s Bill Zippel, PE, SE, and Bill Nuoffer joined other project team members and client representatives at the ACEC-WI gala in April.