A total of 63 beams will provide the support for the deck of the new bridge. The first of the large steel beams being installed are the longest with two beams being joined to span the 190 feet. Two cranes are being used to raise these largest beams into place. The beams for the new bridge span a length of more than 66 feet to 190 feet.

There are a total of 7 spans on the new US 27 bridge with 9 beams in each span. It’s expected to take several weeks to set the beams. Installation started on the north side of the project over Fort Wayne Avenue and will continue to Elm Street.  After this largest span is complete, only one crane will be needed to place the rest of the beams.

The steel beams are transported to the site on large trucks with escort vehicles. Drivers in the area will continue to see beams being brought to the site for the next several weeks. Road closures are not required. However, closures will be necessary on E Street and Elm Street later this month when beams are lifted into place past the railroad tracks.

Once the beams are set, crews will next pour the concrete deck for the bridge. That’s expected to happen later this summer.

What to Expect

Work on the bridge replacement project started in spring 2023, with work on the superstructure and deck continuing throughout the summer. This fall, crews will complete the roadway tie-ins with US 27, with the bridge expected to reopen to traffic late this year.

As a reminder, the project includes the long-term closure of US 27 from North D Street to North G Street and the closure of Fort Wayne Avenue from North 8^th Street to North F Street (north of the railroad tracks). Access is being maintained for local businesses. The closures are expected to be in place until late this year when the bridge reopens to traffic.