I-75 bridge could be closed for weeks

July 20, 2009
The I-75 highway overpass that succumbed to a tanker fire just outside of Detroit may be closed for weeks, detouring traffic to the local Lodge Freeway and other routes.

The Michigan Department of Transportation awarded an emergency $84,000 contract to Posen Construction Inc. to remove that charred remains of the bridge, which collapsed when a motorist slammed into a fuel-tanker truck under the span on July 15.

The I-75 highway overpass that succumbed to a tanker fire just outside of Detroit may be closed for weeks, detouring traffic to the local Lodge Freeway and other routes.

The Michigan Department of Transportation awarded an emergency $84,000 contract to Posen Construction Inc. to remove that charred remains of the bridge, which collapsed when a motorist slammed into a fuel-tanker truck under the span on July 15.

MDOT spokesman Rob Morosi said a contract for the reconstruction of the 9 Mile Road overpass, which was rehabilitated just over a year ago, will be put out to bid in about a month. He estimates that the new bridge will cost between $2-3 million. It is not yet known if the pavement on I-75 will need to be replaced.

Approximately 160,000 motorists work the route daily, a figure that will now swell the Lodge Freeway and other north-south routes. MDOT did not give a time table for new construction, but did say it will follow an accelerated schedule.

Sponsored Recommendations

The Science Behind Sustainable Concrete Sealing Solutions

Extend the lifespan and durability of any concrete. PoreShield is a USDA BioPreferred product and is approved for residential, commercial, and industrial use. It works great above...

Champion Flame Shield® Phenolic Conduit Guide

Learn how Champion Flame Shield® Provides a Safe Solution in Fire Sensitive Applications

Electrical Conduit Comparison Chart

See how fiberglass conduit stacks up to the competition in crucial areas like weight, corrosion resistance and installation cost.

Proven Concrete Protection That’s Safe & Sustainable

Real-life DOT field tests and university researchers have found that PoreShieldTM lasts for 10+ years and extends the life of concrete.