Information About Construction Work on the I-210 Prien Lake Bridge Expected to Last Through 2019

After 54 years of service, the I-210 bridge deck requires repair work. A continued increase in traffic and age could lead to safety concerns if repairs are not made. The work being performed will extend the life of the bridge. The $35 million projects on the I-210 bridge began January 7, 2019, and are estimated to last 1 year. The contractor doing the work is Kiewit Co.

Due to the compressed construction schedule, construction work and lane closures began in phase 1. I-210 Prien Lake eastbound and westbound bridges (MP 1-3) were reduced to one lane in each direction during the day. Westbound will have a full closure Monday through Thursday nights from 9 p.m. – 4 a.m. Lane closures will be necessary to allow space for the contractor to work.

Work to be performed during this project includes: replacing the main span concrete deck to extend the life of the bridge, installing walkways under the main span to provide better access for bridge inspections, retrofitting new guardrails to improve safety, and installing lighting between I-10 and the Cove Lane interchange to enhance visibility during nighttime travel.

DOTD has taken several measures to mitigate traffic impacts by implementing a traffic advisory system on I-10 and I-210, which will provide real-time traffic information to drivers via message boards and flashing signs, increasing Motorist Assistance Patrol (MAP) coverage to three day units and two night units, and prohibiting travel of oversized loads in the work zone.

Significant delays are to be expected for the duration of the project, with special consideration being given to the first week to 10 days of the new pattern. This is expected as drivers typically find a route that is more acceptable to their needs. Motorist should anticipate greater traffic impacts the first few days of the project as travelers adjust to the reduced lanes.