The bridge project on the four-lane in New Martinville is steadily moving forward. The center highways supporting columns have been constructed and are complete. At the present time, attention is being given to first building retaining walls on each side of the highways to stabilize the earth. People passing by at the present time will see heavy equipment removing soil to accommodate the coming walls.

Once the retaining walls are completed, the two end support abutments will be constructed behind the walls. When they are completed and allowed to cure, eight structural I Beams on each side will be put in place, connecting the two sides over the highways. With the completion of those two stages, concrete forms will be placed on the beams, allowing the new concrete for the road surface to be poured. Grade H concrete will be used in the construction of the bridge. Grade H is less porous and will prevent salt and other elements from seeping into the surface. This will prevent deterioration.

The bridge’s high end construction materials, type H concrete and epoxy coated rebar will give the new bridge an expected life span of 100 years.

Originally the completion date was set in April of 2027. Progress so far has not experienced any problems. With the winter weather not hindering construction, the hope is, late 2026 may better define the completion date.