Long Key Bridge – V Piers Replacement

Completed in 2016, the Long Key Bridge – V Piers Replacement project consisted of the replacement of severely deteriorated V-piers at the 12 expansion joints at the Long Key Bridge in the Florida Keys. This bridge is 2.3 miles long, which is the 2nd longest bridge in the Florida Keys and the only evacuation route of the Lower Keys during hurricane season. This project required installation of temporary drilled shafts, installation of a unique temporary support system which stabilized the existing V-piers prior to removal. The existing 12 V-piers were removed by saw cutting and new precast piers were installed using a self-engineered support frame system. The bridge was raised and lowered by hydraulic jacks to allow new piers to be installed all while making sure no material fell in the water. This project was constructed utilizing an innovative construction approach while maintaining uninterrupted live traffic and meeting the most stringent environmental requirements. This project had tight working conditions and was a total marine project constructed off barges.