In 2009, the TRVA scrapped a more expensive bridge design and instead opted for the V-pier design, estimating it would save US$45 million.
The bridges – which have a projected cost of US$81.3 million for design and construction – could be built by 2017. The bridge project is part of a US$909 million plan that would transform a shabby 324ha site roughly twice the size of the city’s central business district and provide more flood control for the city.
Bids are expected to be sought sometime between November and January for construction of the new Henderson Street, North Main Street and White Settlement Road bridges.
Fort Worth and the Texas Department of Transportation will have major roles in the bridges’ construction. TxDot is expected to select a prime contractor to oversee construction of all three bridges. Local officials hope to know within weeks whether a new US$16.4 million federal grant might be awarded for the bridge project, though the scheme can proceed even without the federal aid.
