Tallassee, Alabama residents can expect some renovations to the historic Benjamin Fitzpatrick Bridge. Beginning on March 1, the two-lane structure that crosses the Tallapoosa River on Alabama 14 will begin to see maintenance work.
The Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT) has awarded the $3.5 million project to Omega Coatings and Construction LLC. The work is expected to take approximately 16 months.
According to ALDOT, the average daily traffic count for the bridge was 11,388 vehicles in 2021.
The work will start with the contractor placing a containment structure on the side and under the bridge, said Brantley Kirk, a spokeswoman for ALDOT. The enclosure will be in place to catch, collect, and remove all residue while prepping and painting the bridge. In addition to painting, the bridge will undergo maintenance designed to extend the life of the bridge, including applying a layer of sealant to the concrete bridge deck.
Other work can be expected, such as new fencing, removing and repairing areas of concrete, and performing minor repairs to steel, expansion joints, and bearings.
Lane closures will be necessary for safety during, but they will not be permitted during the hours of 6-8 A.M. and 3:30-5:30 P.M., Monday through Friday.
Kirk said drivers should plan for delays from lane closures and be mindful of equipment and people working in the work zone.
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Source: Tallasseeal.gov
