JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – The Florida Department of Transportation has started a $5.6 million improvement project along U.S. 17 at the bridge over the Trout River.
The project involves resurfacing U.S. 17 on both sides of the Trout River Bridge. Trout River Drive will be closed underneath the bridge, with a cul-de-sac provided on each side of the bridge. Additional parking around the cul-de-sac near a city park will also be constructed.
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The road is being closed due to low clearance problems, which have resulted in damages to the bridge and utilities.
The bridge will be widened by 2 feet, 5 inches on each side. The 9-inch barrier separating traffic from the sidewalk will be raised to 2 feet, 9 inches. The railing between the sidewalk and river will be raised from 3 feet to 3 feet, 6 inches and will be replaced with a pedestrian picket railing.
Bike lanes will be constructed next to the northbound and southbound lanes on the bridge. New bridge lighting along the roadway will also be installed.
The bridge navigational lighting will be replaced, as well as the water level fender system, which helps protect the structure from boat crashes.
The length of the project on U.S. 17 is 2,863 feet, including the 1,458-foot-long bridge, which was built in 1958.
The project should finish in the fall of 2013. The construction contract specifies 715 days to complete the work and allows additional time for holidays, weather delays and unforeseen field conditions.
No lane closings are allowed between 6:30 a.m. and 9 a.m. and between 4 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. Weekdays.
A fishing pier next to the bridge will still be accessible to the public and will not be affected by construction activities.
Superior Construction Co. of Jacksonville is the contractor on the job. The project is being managed for the FDOT by the Jacksonville office of KCCS Inc.
For more information on this project, call the FDOT Public Information Office at 800-207-8236.