Evans Crary

The Evans Crary Bridge sets a record for the longest spans erected by the “span-by-span” method. The new high-level bridge will replace an existing low-level bascule bridge. In addition to eliminating the costly maintenance of an old bascule bridge, the new bridge will increase the travel lanes from two to four; provide 3-m. shoulders, a bicycle lane and a sidewalk.

PCL Civil Constructors was awarded the project in 1998 at a bid price of $30.7 million. They immediately brought Finley McNary Engineers on board to develop a bridge alternative that could meet the project challenges with a “partnered” and “engineered construction” approach. By allowing PCL to develop an alternative construction method, the Florida Department of Transporta-tion was able to realize a cost savings of $770,000.The eastbound lane of the bridge was open to traffic in July of 2000.

Taking a “partnering approach”, the Florida Department of Transportation was able to save time and money by allowing PCL to utilize an alternative construction method. This project is a great example of how Owners can obtain the best value by working as a partner with the Contractor in the construction process and by allowing the Contractor to implement alternative construction methods and details. The Evans Crary Bridge was officially opened to traffic in May 2001.