anchor Description
This project provides for the replacement of the existing Valleywood Drive Bridge. The existing bridge, built in 1960, is a single span 42'-0" prestressed concrete channel bridge carrying one lane of traffic with a clear roadway of 20'-0", 10'-1" wide sidewalk and 2'-1" curb and overall out to out bridge width of 32'-2". The existing bridge has a 3-strand steel railing and chain link fence on both sides. The structure is currently in poor condition due to deterioration of the prestressed concrete cannel beams. The proposed replacement is a single cell 12'-0" wide by 6'-6" high reinforced concrete box culvert and concrete parapets on both sides. The project includes 50' of approach roadway work west of the bridge and approximately 50' east of the bridge. The proposed bridge is 10' wider than the existing bridge. This additional 10' will be used for a new sidepath meeting ADA requirements and will allow pedestrians to cross the bridge on the south side. Currently pedestrians can only cross on the north side. In addition, the bridge traffic barriers/parapets will be upgraded to meet current Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) Manual for Assessing Safety Hardware (MASH) guidelines which will improve safety on the bridge for motorists.
anchorCapacity
The roadway Average Daily Traffic (ADT) is approximately 12,000 vehicles. The roadway capacity will not change as a result of this project.
anchorEstimated Schedule
Project design is expected to finish in FY27. Construction is scheduled to start in FY28 and be completed in FY29. The bridge will be closed to traffic from June 2028 to September 2028.
anchor Justification
The proposed replacement work is necessary to provide a safe roadway condition for the travelling public. The 2022 Bridge Inspection Report for Bridge No. M-0354 indicates that the bridge prestressed concrete channel beams are in poor condition. The bridge is currently posted for load restriction. As a result the bridge is inspected on a 12-month frequency.
anchorOther
A pedestrian impact analysis has been completed for this project.
anchorFiscal Note
The costs of bridge construction and construction management for this project are eligible for up to 80 percent Federal Aid. The design costs for this project are covered in the Bridge Design project (CIP 509132).
anchorDisclosures
A pedestrian impact analysis will be performed during design or is in progress.
anchorCoordination
Federal Highway Administration - Federal Aid Bridge Replacement and Rehabilitation Program, Maryland State Highway Administration, Maryland Department of the Environment, Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission, Montgomery County Department of Permitting Services, Utilities and Bridge Design (CIP 509132)