December 11, 2009 -- Crews opened the new overpass that carries Nine Mile Road over I-75 in Hazel Park this afternoon, just seven weeks after work began, according to the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT). A portion of the Nine Mile Road bridge collapsed on July 15 when a crash involving a tanker truck caused an explosion and fire.
The opening is a welcome sight for residents, business owners and motorists who have endured detours and inconveniences since the mid-July crash. The overpass was replaced in its entirety and a design/build contract allowed for the work to wrap up before the end of the calendar year.
"We're very pleased to deliver this product so quickly to the city of Hazel Park and all those who rely on Nine Mile Road," said Tony Kratofil, MDOT Metro Region engineer. "Our decision to use a design/build contract, and diligence on behalf of our staff and the contractor is the sole reason we are able to open the bridge today."
The design/build method allows contractors to begin working on the bridge with limited design documents. The project was awarded to Walter Toebe Construction Co. of Wixom in August and work began in mid-October. Work to rebuild the I-75 freeway under Nine Mile Road will begin in April and is expected to be completed in mid-summer 2010.
MDOT is currently pursuing federal Emergency Relief Funds to cover up to 90 percent of this $11.8 million project.
For up-to-date information on this project, go to the list of statewide lane closures at: www.michigan.gov/drive. Follow MDOT at www.twitter.com/MichiganDOT or visit the "Michigan Department of Transportation" page on Facebook and become a fan.
MDOT says: Remember - in Ice and Snow, Take it Slow!
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