COLUMBIA – The Missouri Department of Transportation has awarded a contract for the accelerated replacement of the North Sorrel Overpass Drive bridge over Interstate 70 west of Columbia. The overpass, located at mile marker 122 on the west side of Columbia, was significantly damaged by a passing truck on Monday, October 18. The damages resulted in the closure of the bridge.
A plan had previously been in place to replace the 63-year-old bridge in 2022. However, this damage placed the bridge on a fast track for completion. The contract was awarded to Emery Sapp and Sons, Inc., which submitted the low bid of $1,038,857.
“In the aftermath of Monday’s crash, it became imperative to accelerate this project,” said Assistant Central District Engineer Randy Aulbur. “With the awarding of this contract, the contractor can begin as early as Monday, October 25. We are excited to move forward with the demolition and replacement of this structure.”
Under the terms of the contract, the current bridge must be demolished by November 8. MoDOT says there will be closures along I-70 as that demolition takes place. Closures will take place overnight and the majority will be single lane closures. Any full eastbound or westbound closures that are necessary will be limited to 15 minutes in one direction before traffic will be opened and allowed to clear. Motorists are encouraged to use alternate routes when possible, add extra time to their commute, and expect some delays in both directions of I-70.
“The closures are necessary for the safety of travelers and workers on the road,” said Aulbur. “We will be working with the contractor to limit those closures and keep them as brief as possible.”
Updates on specific closure times will be available through the MoDOT Traveler Information Map, signs on the roadway, news releases and social media. Details on the construction of the new bridge will be released once demolition is complete. MoDOT appreciates the patience of motorists during this project.
For more information and updates about this project or other transportation-related matters, please call 1-888-ASK-MoDOT (275-6636) or visit www.modot.org/central. Follow the MoDOT Central Missouri District on Facebook and Twitter for project updates.
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