Industry Round Up: July 18 – July 22
This week’s must reads in the construction industry
TDOT drops idea of new bridge across Tennessee River
TDOT officials recently announced that they have decided not to build the proposed bridge across the Tennessee River in North Hamilton County. The officials noted that fewer people were moving to the area than expected and residents were unwilling to pay tolls to cover the cost of the bridge. They also noted that studies performed several years ago indicated that the bridge would be a viable plan, but factors have changed since these studies were performed.
http://www.chattanoogan.com/2016/7/21/328419/TDOT-Will-No-Longer-Pursue-Idea-Of-New.aspx
No serious injuries in Tappan Zee crane collapse
On Tuesday, a large crane collapsed at the site of the Tappan Zee replacement project. Fortunately, no workers or members of the public were seriously injured as a result of the collapse. Governor Cuomo said that it was a miracle that no lives were taken as a result of this accident. At least four people in the area suffered from minor injuries after the crane fell.
http://www.nytimes.com/2016/07/20/nyregion/crane-collapse-tappan-zee-bridge.html?_r=1
Seattle tunnel project $233 million over budget
The project to replace Seattle’s Alaskan Way Viaduct is currently $233 million over budget, and additional costs over budget are likely. The WDOT announced that they will need additional funding for the project, which was originally expected to cost $3.1 billion. Several delays in the project’s progress are the reason for the increased costs.