The Transportation Modernization Act is a groundbreaking 10-year plan administered by the Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT). With an additional $3.3 billion allocated on top of the annual budget, this initiative aims to expedite crucial transportation projects across the state. Each region will receive approximately $750 million, ensuring equitable distribution of resources.

One of the standout projects under this act is the State Route 14 (SR-14) Bridge Replacement Project in Memphis, TN. This ambitious project combines two adjacent bridge replacements into a single, streamlined effort. The first bridge is the interchange on I-55 at SR-14/3rd Street, which includes a flyover bridge over I-55. The second is the SR-14 bridge over Nonconnah Creek and the CN Railroad tracks, leading into the CN rail yard.

TDOT has adopted the Construction Manager/General Contractor (CMGC) model for this project. This innovative approach involves hiring both an engineer and a contractor from the outset, allowing the project to be designed to the contractor’s strengths. This collaboration aims to deliver the highest quality product efficiently.

The project, with a gross maximum price of $120 million, includes significant utility relocations and partnerships with the Army Corps of Engineers due to the presence of a levee. Key utilities involved are 30-inch gas lines, 96-inch sewer lines, TVA high voltage transmission lines, streams, wetlands, and railroad crossings. Special permits from the Army Corps of Engineers are required to navigate these complexities.

Work will be executed in phases, with the flyover bridge prioritized to minimize traffic disruptions and ensure safety. TDOT has limited road closures to just three weekends throughout the project’s duration, necessary for setting beams over the interstate.

The timeline for the SR-14 project is as follows:

• July 2023: Project kickoff with the selection of the designer and contractor.
• January 2024: Project commencement.
• January 2025: 90% design plans (Plan-in-hand plans) due.
• May 2025: Construction planning begins.
• End of 2028: Project completion.

A unique aspect of this project is the beam launch/bridge launch technique. Sections of the bridge will be constructed off-site, then jacked up and slid into place in four sections. This method allows for quicker construction and reduces on-site disruption.

SSR is assisting TDOT with management of this project under the Transportation Modernization Act. It has provided us with a unique look and new insight into TDOT’s operations. It highlights the extensive behind-the-scenes efforts required to keep projects compliant with state laws and Federal Highway Administration regulations, and to coordinate all the necessary aspects of design, with TDOT right of way, utilities, railroad, environmental, and permitting so that the project can be delivered on schedule.