The $3.5 billion Mobile River Bridge and Bayway project in Alabama has received a boost as construction efforts move forward. The Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT) announced the appointment of Kiewit Massman Traylor (KMT) as the leading contractor for the next phase of the project. KMT, which was already tasked with designing and building the new cable-stayed bridge, will now handle pre-construction activities, including testing the strength of the bridge's foundational piles.

KMT’s involvement will help address one of the biggest transportation challenges in Alabama. The Mobile River Bridge and Bayway project is designed to alleviate congestion along Interstate 10, which currently suffers from significant delays. The existing George Wallace Tunnel, originally built for 35,000 vehicles per day, now handles more than 65,000 vehicles, worsening traffic conditions. The new bridge will replace this tunnel and other aging infrastructure, enhancing the region's road system.

The $3.5 billion project will feature a six-lane cable-stayed bridge over the Mobile River and will replace the Bayway bridges with structures elevated above the 100-year storm surge level. Along with bridge construction, the project will include the reconstruction or modification of seven interchanges along I-10 to improve connectivity. A new intelligent transportation system and all-electronic tolling will also be implemented to enhance safety and traffic flow.

Currently, KMT is conducting a Pile Load Test Program to assess the strength and stability of 24-inch square precast concrete piles, which will form the foundation of the bridge. The pile tests are set to run from May through August, with work scheduled during non-peak hours to minimize traffic disruption on I-10. ALDOT confirmed that the tests will not affect traffic flow, and the results will ensure that construction methods meet safety standards and the design provides long-term durability.

The project is expected to move forward once financing agreements, including a federal TIFIA loan from the U.S. Department of Transportation, are finalized. ALDOT is also working on finalizing the guaranteed maximum price for the construction phase. The department hopes to break ground on the new bridge before the end of the year, pending these approvals.

Ed Austin, ALDOT’s Chief Engineer, emphasized the significance of this development, stating, "This is an important and positive development for the Mobile River Bridge and Bayway project. Kiewit Massman Traylor and their team are hitting the ground running as they take over this portion of the project."

As the project progresses, ALDOT’s efforts aim to improve the transportation infrastructure in Alabama, ensuring safer and more efficient travel for residents and businesses in the region.

Originally reported by Theo Burman in News Week.