Project Highlight:
Replacement of the Fort Avenue Bridge over CSX-Utilities
The Replacement of the Fort Avenue Bridge over CSX project in the Locust Point neighborhood of Baltimore started reconstruction this past May.
SWA, as Sub-Consultant to AECOM, was responsible for the utility demolition and relocation design for the phased demolition of the existing Fort Avenue Bridge. The bridge will be replaced with a 57-feet long x 82.5-feet wide composite steel W27 beam and concrete deck, single span bridge with semi-integral abutments. The original bridge was constructed in 1920 by B&O Railroad Company. With a clearance of only 17'-10" and the ability to support only 50 ton trolley cars and 20 ton trucks, the bridge was deemed obsolete and structurally deficient during a 2007 bridge inspection.
The proposed new bridge would have a minimum of 21'-0" vertical clearance, added green space (trees and planters), increased bridge capacity, and bike lanes. Proposed work limits include 640' of East Fort Avenue to be reconstructed, two 20" diameter water mains, one 10" fire main, one 12" gas main, electrical duct bank and Verizon duct bank.
The year-long project has a goal of re-opening in time for the beginning of the War of 1812 bicentennial celebrations at Fort McHenry.
