Project Update

Current Work:

US 90 traffic is being diverted onto the frontage roads to allow the roadway construction to take place.  The existing concrete paving has been removed, cement has been cut in the sub-grade, and stone base is being installed now. 

A 20,000 cubic yard surcharge was placed on top of the header embankment on both the east and west side of the super structure.  This surcharge worked together with wick drains to provide the maximum amount of settlement over a shorter time period.   This material remained on top of the embankment for 2 months; data from two different monitoring devices shows all settlement is complete, and the surcharge is currently being removed. 

The new Microwave Tower has been erected by Daley Tower and is currently operational.  This tower stands on 4 – 80 ft drill shafts.  The existing tower has been removed along with the guide wire system. 

The substructures for the bridges are completed with the exception of the End Bents.  Girders have been set on 17 spans and have the stay-in-place forms installed.  Bridge crews are currently working on forming diaphragms and setting overhang forms for the bridge decks. 

Project Factoid:

This was the first Design Build Project awarded to Gilchrist Construction and may be the first to ever be completed in Louisiana.