The ongoing rehabilitation of the Canada-bound (eastbound) span of the Blue Water Bridge is about 45% complete and on schedule, officials say.
The work, known as the Second Blue Water Bridge (SBWB) Rehabilitation Project, began May 29 and is expected to continue through to October. All traffic has moved to the U.S.-bound (westbound) span.
“Traffic management during the SBWB project has been smooth and efficient,” the Federal Bridge Corporation (FBCL) said in a news release, adding that the FAST toll lane remaining operational throughout the rehabilitation process has played a critical role in maintaining stable commercial truck traffic. “Additionally, the dedicated local lane has greatly improved safety and traffic flow for local residents and businesses, minimizing delays on Highway 402, and ensuring smooth and safe transit to the US.”
Work to date includes the milling of asphalt, removal of waterproofing, and deck surface grinding. The full-depth concrete deck repair is also 50% completed, officials added. The sidewalk concrete overlay has been removed, and various concrete repairs at the sidewalk, including the curb, are progressing. Waterproofing operations and paving are set to begin in mid-September, keeping the project on track.
“Despite operating with one bidirectional bridge, traffic backups have generally not exceeded pre-project levels,” the FBCL added. “This success can be attributed to the effective management of dedicated lanes by enforcement agencies. FBCL and the Michigan Department of Transportation have collaborated closely to manage vehicle flow, incorporating lessons learned from past projects to enhance planning and execution.
“Continued support from the Canada Border Services Agency and U.S. Customs and Border Protection has also been crucial in maintaining smooth traffic operations.”