Jacobs has been appointed as the primary designer by Aetna Bridge Company for the demolition of the westbound span of the Rhode Island Department of Transportation’s (RIDOT) Washington Bridge in the US.
Jacobs will take charge as the lead designer to develop a phased demolition plan, which is essential for reconnecting Providence and East Providence on the Interstate 195 route.
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Jacobs executive vice-president Katus Watson said: “Rapidly restoring the vital connection between Rhode Island’s East Bay area and the capital city is paramount.
“Our integrated schedule and collaborative approach with Aetna, RIDOT and other stakeholders will enable us to meet project milestones quickly and create a safer, more connected experience for the community and travelling public.”
The route was previously used by nearly 100,000 vehicles daily before the closure of the westbound lane.
RIDOT had to close the westbound side of the Washington Bridge after discovering severe issues in several structural components, which were part of the original bridge built in 1968.
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By GlobalDataJacobs’ strategy involves an expedited scheduling approach to minimise commuter disruption and risk during the demolition process.
By dismantling the bridge in sections, Jacobs aims to protect the surrounding environment, including preventing debris from falling into the Seekonk River.
The project is progressing as planned, with the demolition phase expected to be completed by December of this year.
Jacobs, with a workforce of approximately 45,000, offers services across various sectors, including advanced manufacturing, energy, environmental, life sciences, transportation, and water.
The company provides advisory and consulting to planning, design, and life cycle management.
Recently, the Massachusetts Department of Transportation selected Jacobs, in collaboration with design-build contractor McCourt Construction, to undertake the Natick Bridge Replacement and Interchange Improvements Project at Routes 27 and 9 in the US.
