Bridge concerns: Time, money

ALBANY, Ga. — Local leaders, environmentalists, construction and engineering experts all gathered Tuesday to hear design concepts and environmental impact information surrounding the proposed construction of a replacement for the defunct Broad Avenue bridge.

After having been deemed unsuitable for both vehicular and pedestrian traffic last year by the Georgia Department of Transportation, the 80-year-old bridge is coming down.

What goes up in its place was largely the discussion held Tuesday, which was led by officials with Heath and Lineback Engineers, who worked to determine the needs of those who have a local stake in the project and unveil possible design options for the bridge.

The largest constraints facing stakeholders at this point, officials say, is time and money.

After being closed for more than a year, traffic has dramatically increased on the Oglethorpe Boulevard bridge and on the Oakridge Boulevard bridge, making the project time sensitive.

And with money at the state, local and federal levels tight as a result of the recession, the size, scope and functionality of a new bridge may hinge on its price tag — which is currently expected to be around $7 million.

Josh Orton of Heath and Linebeck showed various bridge designs ranging from simple tressell-like bridges to complex cable suspension bridges.

The simplest design, a standard girder style that would be the cheapest both in terms of construction and maintenance cost, would require complete demolition of the current bridge, including other current water-based structures that would add to the time of demolition and increase environmental concerns.

In total, eight designs were offered, with a breakdown of cost, environmental impact, historical impact, design time, construction time, demolition time and maintenance costs.

An Open House for the public is scheduled for April 29, from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the Riverfront Resource Center at 125 Pine Avenue. Project displays will be shown and staff will be available to answer questions.