Bridges

For this 11-year-old interested in engineering and architecture, there was nothing better than going to the office with Dad.

Daunting engineering challenge or monster B-movie material? We are looking at a tangled web for Throwback Thursday.

Let us just take a moment to say how much we love I-40. How much, you might ask? Oh, we love it to the tune of $275 million.

Whether it's the satisfying geometry of a bridge's lines and shapes or the sheer immensity of its size, the various construction stages are a sight to see. When it comes to the new Pinto Creek Bridge on US 60, you have the added appeal of stunning desert scenery and staggering slopes set against an Arizona blue sky. 

PHOENIX – Recognizing the importance of Interstate 40 for commercial trucks and travelers, the Arizona Department of Transportation has invested $275.2 million in bridge improvements, pavement projects and other safety-related projects along the 360-mile corridor over the past five years.

Since 2016, ADOT has replaced pavement on about 90 miles of I-40, which includes rebuilding 5 miles of the interstate in each direction near Williams, and repaired, upgraded or replaced 35 bridges along the corridor.

Angeline Hoagland would be amazed. After all, she was but a toddler when she died near the Old Black Canyon Highway in 1889, but stories of her death – and reports of her “ghost” – are alive and kicking today.

Ever wonder how a bridge, whether it be a stately metal connector over a canyon or a concrete slab over a wash, comes into being? And why they take the form they do? Well, let us tell you!

PHOENIX – The Arizona Department of Transportation is replacing the bridge deck of the Post Office Canyon Bridge along SR 73 near the community of Whiteriver in order to extend the life of the bridge.

After a year's work, the new ramps connecting SR 189 and I-19 are almost ready. And with them, a better day for commercial trucking and safety in Nogales.

A close up shot reminds us that it's no small thing to pay attention to the details. 

This historical bridge built before Arizona was a state continues to support travelers in southeastern Arizona.

PHOENIX – The Arizona Department of Transportation is starting a project to replace the Interstate 40 bridges over Business 40, which connects the interstate to Historic Route 66 in west Flagstaff. 

Half time's over! Crews kick off second half of the I-17 Central Avenue bridge project.

PHOENIX – While work is underway to reconstruct Bridge No. 1 along Interstate 15, access to the Virgin River that passes under the bridge will be closed for public safety beginning March 8.

The Arizona Department of Transportation will be replacing the abutment foundations of the bridge as part of the project. With heavy equipment and work taking place beneath the bridge, the public will not be able to access or utilize the river or adjacent lands at this location during the construction project.

Have you thought about being an engineer when you grow up? At ADOT, we have many different types, all doing important work!

It's Engineers Week and ADOT Director John Halikowski is saying a big thank you for all that engineers do for the agency.

This bridge in Cochise County may not look like it has a lot to do with ADOT, but it's an example of a changing time in the world of infrastructure. 

How do you know that a slope is secure? Why, you use incinometers and piezometers, of course!

PHOENIX – The Arizona Department of Transportation is set to begin work on replacing Virgin River Bridge No. 1 along Interstate 15 with a brand new bridge that will increase safety and help the corridor to continue carrying commerce for decades to come.

The Houghton Road interchange project at I-10 near Tucson has been in the works for awhile, but this photo will help you get a sense of the scope of the project.