ADOT reminds drivers to expect delays as part of Interstate 15 bridge work

PHOENIX – As the Arizona Department of Transportation continues to make significant progress on the reconstruction of the Interstate 15 Virgin River Bridge No. 6, the agency is urging drivers traveling in the far northwest corner of Arizona to slow down and allow extra travel time as delays are expected while construction continues through the summer.

The highway has been narrowed to one lane in each direction through the work zone since construction began on the $27 million bridge rehabilitation project in spring 2014. The project includes the replacement of the bridge’s superstructure (girders, deck and railings), as well as widening the roadway through the narrow passage of the Virgin River Gorge.

Currently, the northbound bridge, located midway between Mesquite, Nevada, and St. George, Utah, at milepost 16, remains closed due to construction and both directions of traffic are traveling on the two-lane southbound bridge. Next month, one lane in each direction is expected to be shifted to the new, wider northbound bridge and ADOT will then start work to rebuild the southbound bridge. 

The project is anticipated to be completed in 2016.

With limited alternate routes due to the remote location of the I-15 Virgin River Gorge corridor, ADOT urges drivers to plan ahead, allow extra travel time, slow down and drive carefully through the work zone, and be alert for additional construction equipment, crews and law enforcement personnel.

ADOT works to inform the public about planned highway restrictions, but there is a possibility that unscheduled closures or restrictions may occur. Weather can also affect a project schedule. To stay up to date with the latest highway conditions around the state, visit the ADOT Traveler Information Center at az511.gov or call 5-1-1. For those outside of Arizona, please dial 1.888.411.ROAD (7623).