Caltrans continues work on Interstate 10 at Tex Wash Bridge, near Desert Center. Demolition of the collapsed eastbound bridge was completed on Friday, July 31.
The westbound bridge is open and being used by traffic for both directions of travel. Traffic delays have been minimal. The speed limit has been reduced to 45 miles per hour within the construction zone.
Demolition included the removal of three spans — beginning with the collapsed span. Following the approval of a conceptual design, re-building of the eastbound bridge is anticipated to begin within a week.
To date, Caltrans estimates the project cost is about $5 million. Cost estimates include the strengthening and temporary traffic configuration of the westbound bridge, as well as the demolition of the eastbound bridge.
The completion goal of the new bridge remains late September 2015 — contingent upon weather conditions. The goal will be accomplished, in part, with the use of precast materials and an accelerated work schedule.
Those with scheduled permit loads should contact Caltrans Transportation Permit Office at 916-322-1297 or their permit service company, as the temporary route configuration may affect load transportation.
For background information on the I-10 Tex wash bridge visit www.caltrans8.info and review commuter alert 15-132d.
