New Bridge Construction Kicks Off in Jackson County
The beautiful town of Jackson County is about to get a little bit of a facelift, and it’s certainly something worth talking about! The North Carolina Department of Transportation has just announced a major project that will see six bridges replaced in our area, with a focus on safety and functionality. This development is especially exciting for anyone who uses these structures on a regular basis.
A Closer Look at the Project
To kick things off, a hefty contract worth $6.5 million has been awarded to NHM Constructors based in Asheville. They will be taking on the task of replacing the well-trafficked Jake Parris Bridge located on U.S. 23/74, which runs over Dark Ridge Road and Scotts Creek. This bridge has been around since 1957, and it’s classified as “structurally deficient and functionally obsolete.” Now, that might sound a bit alarming, but the truth is, the bridge is safe to cross — it just doesn’t meet modern standards anymore.
What does that mean for drivers? Well, you can expect smoother journeys once the new bridge is completed, which is set to be done by November 2016. There’s no need to panic about detours, either. During the construction phase, traffic will be directed efficiently to ensure that everyone can continue their travels with minimal disruption. Jonathan Woodard from the DOT mentioned that the plan involves demolishing one span of the bridge and diverting traffic to the other span, then reversing the process when the time comes. So, it’s all very well thought out!
Other Bridges on the List
The excitement doesn’t end there! This project will also address four additional bridges in Jackson County. The total cost for these replacements is around $5.5 million. Here’s a brief rundown of the bridges that are set to be replaced:
- Moses Creek Road bridge over Moses Creek – Built in 1963
- Woodfin Road bridge over Woodfin Creek – Built in 1957
- Johns Creek Road bridge over Rich Mountain Branch – Built in 1961
- Dills Cemetery Road bridge over Fisher Creek – Built in 1963
Now, it’s important to note that all four of these bridges are considered functionally obsolete, and while they are still holding up, they need to be replaced to keep up with current traffic demands. In fact, all but the Dills Cemetery Road bridge are classified as structurally deficient as well. That means they need a little extra attention to ensure safety and reliability for everyone who uses them.
Looking Forward to Completion
The schedule for these upgrades looks promising, with all bridges expected to be finished by November 2017. From cozy family outings to daily commutes, our town’s infrastructure improvements will surely benefit everyone. Seeing these projects come to life is encouraging as it shows a commitment to serving our community’s needs.
So whether you’re a local driving to work or a visitor passing through, keep an eye out for these changes. It’s always great to see investments being made in our roads and bridges because they are the backbone of our community. Here’s to smooth travels ahead as we update our connections!
