Construction - Schedule

Design Phase

The initial design phase began in October 2008 and continues through March 2009. The work during this phase is “behind the scenes” as engineers develop plans and specifications for the new structure as well as acquire permits for the temporary structures necessary to rehabilitate the bridge.

Construction Phase

The construction phase includes all of the preparatory work which must take place on and off site prior to closing the existing swing span. This phase began in January 2009 with some site preparation and continues through the summer and into the fall of 2009. Look for crews to install the access trestle and temporary falsework, simultaneously construct the east and west approach spans adjacent to the existing bridge, and erect a replacement swing span off-site.

Closure Phase

Lasting only ten days, the phase when the Ben Sawyer Bridge is closed to traffic is the shortest of all the phases. During this phase, crews will replace the east and west approaches, the swing span, approach slabs, and the approach roadway. The new approach spans are being pre-fabricated south of the existing structure on temporary bents. During the closure, the existing approach spans will be shifted north to temporary bents adjacent to the existing concrete piers, and the new spans will be shifted north onto the existing bridge’s reinforced concrete piers.

This is an intensive phase requiring a 24 hour workday schedule. During the ten day bridge closure phase, the Isle of Palms Connector will be the only access for Sullivan’s Island and the Isle of Palms.

Demolition Phase

The demolition phase will commence after the closure phase. During this phase, crews finalize construction activities and dismantle the old swing span for removal.