FAQs

Why does the bridge need to be replaced?

The bridge has been in service for nearly 100-years and is reaching the end of its service life. Due to continued deterioration and its narrow width that no longer meets the needs of the community, a decision was made to replace the bridge. Refer to the Project’s Scoping Report (see Project Documents) for additional information.

When will construction of the new bridge occur?

Active construction is anticipated to begin in early 2027. Intermittent onsite field work and data collection will be occurring over the next several years to support the design efforts.

How long will construction last?

Construction is anticipated to take 2 to 3 years. This duration will continue to be evaluated as the design progresses.

What is Design Build?

Design-Build is a project delivery method that allows VTrans to execute a single, fixed fee contract for construction and final design. Design Build has two primary phases: project definition or development and construction. The project definition or development phase will occur over the next few years as VTrans establishes project-specific criteria and impact limitations that the construction team will need to satisfy.

The selected construction team, then completes the design and construction for their solution that meets VTrans’ established criteria. This contracting method allows the project to be contracted more quickly, for construction to commence earlier than traditional construction contracting methods and promotes increased innovation and cost-savings measures due to the competitive bid environment among contractor teams. Refer to https://www.fhwa.dot.gov/ipd/alternative_project_delivery/defined/new_build_facilities/design_build.aspx for additional information.

What is accelerated bridge construction?

Accelerated Bridge Construction (ABC) makes use of prefabricated elements to minimize the amount of construction work on site. Elements for bridges are built off site in a fabrication plant or nearby staging yard. Once they are completed, these elements can be brought to the site and be quickly installed with less impact to the traveling public than conventional bridge construction methods. By employing ABC, impacts to traffic can be reduced from months to just weeks or even days. Refer to https://vtrans.vermont.gov/highway/structures-hydraulics/accelerated-bridge-program/faqs for additional information.

How will pedestrians and bicyclists cross the river during construction?

Pedestrian and bicyclist facilities will be provided throughout construction. Short term or intermittent closures may be required.

Will the project include work to the intersection south of the bridge in Burlington?

Yes. This overall project will include intersection improvements immediately south of the bridge, involving Riverside Street, Colchester Avenue, Mill Street, and Barrett Street. The improvements will generally consist of roadway reconstruction and traffic signal modifications, with the goal of improving safety and mobility for all users.

Who is paying for this bridge project?

The bridge project has received a federal RAISE Grant that will cover a portion of the project construction. The project costs will be split as follows: 80% Federal, 10% State, 5% City of Burlington, and 5% City of Winooski.

What will the new bridge look like?

In general, the bridge is anticipated to improve mobility for all users by incorporating wider travel lanes and wider multi-use paths/sidewalks to accommodate pedestrians and bicycles. Overall, the new bridge will be approximately 21 feet wider than the existing bridge. However, much of the remaining appearance and layout of the new bridge is yet to be determined and some features will be influenced by public input.

Refer to Project Documents for additional details and copies of public presentations

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