The Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) has hired Kiewit Infrastructure South Co. as construction manager for the long-awaited $800 million I-55 bridge replacement in Memphis. The project, a priority piece of infrastructure, will enhance safety, add capacity, and be seismically compliant with today’s standards.
The current I-55 bridge has been a main thoroughfare for tourists and commerce for 75 years. Because it is positioned over the seismically active New Madrid fault line, however, the bridge needs to be upgraded in a significant way. The original bridge will be removed and replaced by a wider, more resilient version that will be able to resist likely seismic activity and increasing traffic demands.
Kiewit’s Expertise and Vision
Kiewit Infrastructure South Co. has experience working on large transportation and bridge projects around the country, including Tennessee and Arkansas. Executive vice president at Kiewit, Dave Miles, cited the importance of the bridge in national commerce and regional connectivity as the reason for the company’s interest in the project. He also noted that this investment would yield long-term economic benefits and improve travel efficiency.
Meeting Growing Traffic Demands
Currently, the I-55 bridge transports approximately 48,000 vehicles daily. In 2050, the new bridge will transport a maximum of 64,000 vehicles daily, cementing Memphis’ position as a critical transportation hub.
Project Timeline and Design Progress
Environmental analysis is nearly complete, and design is underway well. TDOT expects to begin construction in the 2026 fiscal year. Parsons Transportation Group, a subsidiary of Parsons Corp., is designing the project and was awarded the contract in October 2023.
Federal and Regional Support
TDOT Deputy Governor and Commissioner Butch Eley described the project as a long-term investment in Tennessee’s transportation infrastructure, given its importance to safety, connectivity, and economic growth. The project has gained wide support from the U.S. Department of Transportation, the Arkansas government, and industry experts.
Arkansas Department of Transportation Director Jared Wiley stressed the significance of the I-55 corridor for national freight movement. He praised TDOT for securing a record-high grant to fund the project and had faith in Kiewit to complete the project on time and within budget.
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Kiewit Selected for I-55 bridge Replacement: Key Project Details
Project Cost: $800 million
Construction Company: Kiewit Infrastructure South Co.
Design Firm: Parsons Transportation Group (awarded in October 2023)
Construction Commencement: FY 2026
Environmental Study: In progress, near completion
Existing Bridge: Built in 1949, with capacity for 48,000 daily vehicles
Future Bridge Capacity: 64,000 daily vehicles by 2050
Notable Improvements: Increased capacity, enhanced safety, and better seismic resistance
The I-55 bridge replacement is a momentous occasion in the infrastructure development of Memphis that will create a safer and more efficient link between Tennessee and Arkansas for generations to come.
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