After nearly a decade of work, a major transportation link in the Bronx has officially reopened with the completion of the $232 million Unionport Bridge Replacement Project, led by Unionport Constructors, a joint venture between SPC Construction and Lane Construction.
The project replaces the aging Unionport Bridge, a bascule span originally built in the 1950s, with a modern double-leaf bascule bridge designed to serve the region for at least 75 years, according to a Dec. 10 announcement from FlatironDragados, SPC’s parent company.
The new structure carries the Bruckner Expressway over Westchester Creek, restoring a critical connection between the Cross Bronx Expressway, Bruckner Expressway, and Hutchinson River Parkway. The replacement bridge features two side-by-side, single-leaf bascule spans, each accommodating three lanes of traffic, improving both capacity and reliability along one of New York City’s most heavily traveled corridors.
Construction began in 2017 and was delivered in 10 phases, allowing both vehicular traffic and maritime navigation along Westchester Creek to continue throughout the build. This phased approach minimized disruptions while crews dismantled the old structure and erected the new one.
SPC Construction operates as part of FlatironDragados, a major infrastructure firm formed through the combination of Schiavone Construction, John P. Picone, and E.E. Cruz, with a strong presence across the New York and New Jersey region. Lane Construction is a subsidiary of the Webuild Group, a global construction organization with roots in Italy and a significant footprint in U.S. transportation infrastructure.
Beyond structural upgrades, the new Unionport Bridge incorporates a dedicated pedestrian walkway, a protected bike lane, and enhanced lighting, signage, and safety systems. The bridge also includes upgraded mechanical and electrical components, improving reliability for both roadway users and marine traffic.
The Bronx project reflects a broader national effort to modernize aging movable bridges. Similar work is underway elsewhere, including Granite’s $138 million rehabilitation of Chicago’s Lake Street Bascule Bridge, originally built in 1916, underscoring the growing focus on replacing or upgrading legacy infrastructure across major U.S. cities.
With the Unionport Bridge now fully open, the project marks a significant milestone in New York City’s long-term push to improve resilience, safety, and connectivity across its transportation network.
Originally reported by Matthew Thibault in Construction Dive.
