Second phase of drawbridge project to get underway next month

BILOXI — The Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT) will soon begin work on the rehabilitation of the Interstate 110 Drawbridge in Biloxi, according to Southern Transportation Commissioner Tom King.

The $8.2-million project, awarded to PCL Civil Constructors of Tampa, Fla., is the second and final phase of the renovation project. In 2011, MDOT completed a $4.1-million project involving the replacement of the steel grid decking of the bridge.

Phase two construction is scheduled to begin in April, and will be a complete renovation of the mechanical, electrical, and interior components of the bridge. In addition, the steel portions of the bridge will be covered by layers of protective coating, which preserves the life of the structure.

MDOT says although traffic impacts are minimal, motorist will encounter a slight lane shift when travelling northbound as they approach the bridge. All lane closures will be conducted during evening hours to minimize traffic congestion.

The project is scheduled for completion in July 2014.