The Design-Build Institute of America (DBIA) honored the Governor Harry W. Nice/Senator Thomas “Mac” Middleton Bridge Replacement Design-Build project with their National Merit Award in the Transportation category.
This substantial, state-to-state project included the design, construction, and inspection of a new 61’ wide bridge over the Potomac River, with four 12’ wide lanes and a center median to increase traffic capacity and improve safety and visibility from Maryland to Virginia. In an effort to support thousands of vehicles per day, our team served in a joint venture to provide construction management and inspection services including lead structural inspections, facility construction management, material testing, maintenance of traffic, environmental compliance monitoring, document control, and overseeing intelligent transportation system installation for the proposed structure and the addition of six new administrative facilities on the Maryland shore.
KCI worked with the Maryland Transport Authority (MDTA) to incorporate many firsts during this replacement project including the selection of design-build as the project delivery method. In addition, the teams were able to reclaim 9,500 tons of materials from the original decommissioned bridge to enhance the habitat and transport old concrete to an artificial reef site. Through a collaborative effort with MDTA and partner agencies, nearly 12 million live oysters were planted on the 148-acre natural Lower Cedar Point Bar. After successfully completing the project in only two years, the new crossing will sustain twice the capacity for vehicular traffic, further marine life, and benefit generations to come.
