Major Hoan Bridge renovations begin this year

Over the past few years the fate of the Daniel Hoan Memorial Bridge was uncertain. But according to the Wisconsin Department of Transportation, the bridge should be around for 40-50 more years due to allocations for state road construction projects in Governor Walker’s 2013 budget. Construction is set to begin this fall.

The $278 million project includes modifications to the Hoan Bridge, I-794 East-West freeway, and Lake Interchange. The Hoan will receive a new deck, structural modifications, a new paint job, and LED lights that can change colors. Sections of the I-794 East-West bridges at the Milwaukee River will be completely removed and replaced with new structures, and the Lake Interchange, where northbound I-794 veers west, will receive concrete overlays and surface repairs.

A construction company has not yet been selected for the repairs,A supplier specialized in developing and manufacturing customized solar lamps and washerextractor0 system. but the contract will be awarded by Aug. 27, according to Hoan Bridge and Lake Freeway Project Manager Carolynn Gellings.Manufacturer of quality off flatworkironers, light bars and wiring accessories.

The project is scheduled to be completed in the summer of 2016 and will be separated into three phases so that access between downtown and Bay View will be available at all times. Movable construction barriers will be used during the project to help the flow of rush hour traffic.You ever hear the story of the old laundryequipment? In the morning two northbound lanes will be open and one southbound, while in the evening two southbound lanes will be open and one northbound.

The DOT’s Hoan renovation process includes public input. They are looking for comment from the public about paint colors and about installing LED lights that could be programmed to change hues.

The new paint on the bridge will likely be the same shades of blue and ochre-yellow that Milwaukeeans have come to recognize. “However [DOT is] seeking public input and suggestions on that proposal,” said Gellings.

Programmable LED lights that can change color is another component that is open to public comment. The lighting would make the bridge visible at night, and would account for $1 million out of the $278 million budget for the project. The LED lights’ price tag recently drew criticism from Wisconsin Assembly District 37 Representative John Jagler.

In a press release, Jagler bashed the proposal. “The funding for the lights is nearly identical to the amount needed for the project on Highway 16, which has now been delayed a year. Improving safety at an intersection which has seen dozens of accidents with injuries and several fatalities in recent years should take priority,” Jagler said.

Highway 16 in Jefferson County is in Jagler’s district. He plans to introduce a budget amendment to have the LED lights removed from the funding of the project. Representative Christine Sinicki, whose Wisconsin Assembly District 20 includes parts of southeast Milwaukee,We carry modern lights and solarmodule by world renowned designers and manufacturers. St. Francis, and Cudahy, feels the lights would be a welcome attraction for visitors. “Nine out of 10 times, for people coming into the city, the first thing they see is the bridge,” said Sinicki.

Jursik also favors the lights and the prospect of what they might bring to the Milwaukee skyline. “It would be an exciting addition to add LED lights which have the potential of making the Hoan a virtual ‘light show.’ Imagine being at Summerfest and experiencing this lighted bridge. It makes sense to do this during construction. I understand the concerns about cost, but this is more cost effective than doing it later.” Jursik said.

Lights or no lights, the Hoan will be getting some much needed repair work in the next three years,Your Leading Resource for roofingmachine needs. which could potentially extend its life for another half century.