Bridge Construction
Existing Bridge
The following bridge monitoring is taking place to ensure the existing Indian River Inlet Bridge remains safe while the new bridge is being constructed:
- Yearly visual inspections: The last inspection took place in July 2010 and nothing of concern was found.
- Underwater Dive Inspections: The most recent inspection occurred in October 2009 and no changes in the scour condition near the piers nor in the general area were noted.
- Bathymetric Surveys: DelDOT conducts annual bathymetric surveys, and additional surveys after severe storm events. In addition the Army Corps of Engineers has continued to provide DelDOT with their periodic bathymetric surveys.
- Land Survey Equipment: Land survey equipment is used to monitor movement, if any occurs, on the existing bridge on a regular basis (monthly).
- Sonar monitoring device: DelDOT is working with the University of Delaware to install sonar devices on the bridge to further monitor the scour progression.
- Pier Sensors: DelDOT worked with the University of Delaware to install pier sensors on the bridge.
All monitoring devices indicate that the existing bridge is structurally sound and safe for the traveling public's use.
The current bridge will remain in place while the new bridge is built. After construction of the new bridge is complete, the old bridge will be demolished. DelDOT is currently discussing options for disposal with the Army Corp of Engineers.
The current bridge will remain in place while the new bridge is built. After construction of the new bridge is complete, the old bridge will be demolished. DelDOT is currently discussing options for disposal with the Army Corp of Engineers.
