Unforeseen Circumstances Cause TDOT to Pause I-24 Bridge Construction in Chattanooga
Chattanooga, Tenn. — A significant interruption has occurred in the colossal enterprise focused on enhancing the problematic area where Interstate 24 and Interstate 75 merge. The Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) announced a halt in their engineering efforts last Wednesday, citing ‘unforeseen circumstances’. The issue involves two concrete beams on the South Moore Road Bridge and three beams on the McBrien Road Bridge over Interstate 24.
Reason for the Stoppage
TDOT released a statement identifying the cause of the problem. “The concrete beams in question did not meet the stipulations outlined in our contract with Wright Brothers Construction Company,” said Rae Ann Bradley, the authoritative TDOT spokesperson. The company will be solely responsible for replacing the non-standard beams as well as undertaking the additional work required, at no further cost to TDOT.
A Rigorous Quality Control System is at Work
Bradley explained that the organization’s stringent quality control mechanism was the secret behind the discovery. Highlighting TDOT’s stringent approach, she stated, “Each contract TDOT enters into contains a comprehensive range of standard specifications that precisely delineate our expectations for the project. Along with our internal experts, consultants constantly test and observe all facets of every project. This unexpected discovery is evidence of performance of these inviolable protocols.”
Project Timeline Will Not Alter
In a response to queries, Wright Brothers Construction acknowledged that they had detected the problem back in January. Initially, the company stated that the project’s timeline would remain unaffected. However, on reconfirmation, they reiterated that the overall project timeline would remain as projected.
Wright Brothers to Replace Deficient Beams
In an official declaration, Wright Brothers illuminated their position regarding the non-standard beams. They underlined their commitment towards safety, longevity, and budget control. “With approval of the Department, we have agreed upon a plan to replace the five deficient beams and carry forward the concrete deck placement operation according to the projected timeline,” the company mentioned.
Original Openings Delayed
Investigations are in progress to evaluate the extent of the delay. Originally, it was expected that the South Moore Road and McBrien Road bridges would be opened for traffic by the end of this summer. In her latest communication, Rae Ann Bradley admitted that they are still ascertaining the extent to which the discovery might impact the timeline.
Project Progress
TDOT’s spokesperson informed that as of April, 40 percent of the overall Phase II project was completed. She also revealed that the construction company is slated to cast the three new beams for McBrien Road Bridge during this week, followed by the preparation of two beams for South Moore Road thereafter.
As this major story continues to unfold, we at the HERE News Network will ensure that our readers stay up-to-date with the latest developments.
