The replacement follows a 2017 structural analysis of the bridge over the San Juan River. The now 50-year-old bridge is not up to today’s standards and forced closure of one of the bridge’s two lanes.
From San Juan County:
Tuesday, March 30, 2021
Work will soon begin to replace the Road 5500 bridge in Lee Acres with construction expected to last a year.
Tuesday, the San Juan County Commission voted to award a construction contract to Kiewit New Mexico, following a competitive bid process to secure a contractor. Bidding closed on March 16, 2021. The contract is worth $7,357,704. Construction will begin in May.
The replacement follows a 2017 structural analysis of the bridge over the San Juan River. The now 50-year-old bridge is not up to today’s standards and forced closure of one of the bridge’s two lanes.
Since 2017, San Juan County has pursued plans to replace the bridge and the funding for the project.
The replacement bridge is designed to modern bridge standards and prepare for the future. The design includes two vehicle lanes, shoulders, and protected pedestrian facilities. The project has been funded through various state and local sources. State legislators and the New Mexico Department of Transportation District 5 were instrumental in securing funding for the project.
Construction is slated to begin in May 2021 and finish within 12 months. Currently, plans include at least one lane remaining open to traffic during the majority of work. Electronic message boards will be displayed in the project area notifying residents and users of the construction start date and potential delays.
Editor's note: This bridge was reduced to one lane in March 2018. The project was re-designed and put out to bid again recently after previous bids came in over budget.
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