Work Begins To Replace Highway 97 Bridge In Walnut Hill

March 25, 2015

Construction activities began Tuesday to replace a 75-year old Highway 97 bridge over Little Pine Barren Creek in Walnut Hill.

The work is part of a $2.5 million contract which consist of replacing the existing structurally deficient bridge, including roadway reconstruction, milling and resurfacing, guardrail, drainage, new signs and pavement markings.  Drivers will utilize a temporary roadway and bridge during construction of the new bridge.

The contractor started clearing trees and shrubs and utility relocation operations this week. Construction of the temporary roadway and bridge is scheduled to follow in about two to three weeks.  Work is anticipated to be completed in the spring of 2016.  No overweight loads will be permitted onto the temporary bridge (loads weighing over 88-thousand pounds).

The bridge is located at the intersection of Wiggins Lake Road, about one mile north of Ernest Ward Middle School.  The bridge was constructed in 1940.

NorthEscambia.com photos, click to enlarge.

Comments

4 Responses to “Work Begins To Replace Highway 97 Bridge In Walnut Hill”

  1. 429SCJ on March 27th, 2015 6:52 am

    I remember about twenty years ago a young woman disappeared after leaving a NYE party at the State Line. Tragically her vehicle and remains were discovered about two years later ,there at the bridge by boys fishing.

  2. troubled on March 25th, 2015 5:31 pm

    @pPuddin You are right they did a great job on 97a. I hope we get same crew back when they do 2nd bridge on 97a. The crew was always keeping area clean no trash left out, were nice and polite to any questions you asked, ECT…

  3. Driver on March 25th, 2015 7:50 am

    >>but its a major road for trucks. Wonder where they will run the go around.

    Trucks will use the Hwy 97 temp bridge. Only overweight trucks will need to avoid the temp bridge…..most on the highway are under the weigh limit.

  4. pPuddin on March 25th, 2015 7:43 am

    That is going to be a giant mess. Glad the school buses can cross the temp bridge, but its a major road for trucks. Wonder where they will run the go around.

    Either way, I am glad the bridge is being replaced. Love the job they did on 97a bridge. :-D