Acrow Modular Bridge Solution Keeping Texas Connected
When the Taylor Bayou Bridge on State Highway 124 in Jefferson County, Texas, faced a much-needed replacement, a full closure was initially on the cards. Yet, this rural region, where alternative routes stretch over 30 miles, couldn’t afford the disruption. Enter Acrow, the global leader in modular steel bridge solutions, with a plan to keep traffic flowing and the community connected.
Acrow’s modular detour bridge, a 130-foot-long structure with a 30-foot-wide two-lane design, was deployed to ensure the safety and convenience of commuters and first responders alike. Rented to the Texas Materials Group, Inc., the bridge not only eliminated the need for a lengthy detour but also showcased Acrow’s commitment to efficient, cost-effective solutions.
A Solution Tailored to Texas
The Taylor Bayou Bridge project wasn’t just about replacing an ageing structure; it was part of a broader effort to widen the bayou, enhancing stormwater drainage and reducing flood risks in this vulnerable area. For the community of Hamshire, the bridge on State Highway 124 serves as a critical artery—not just for daily commutes but for emergency services and commercial traffic.
With these stakes in mind, the Acrow 700XS® panel bridge was chosen. Designed to AASHTO HL-93 specifications and featuring an asphalt overlay for a 2% cross-slope, the modular bridge was engineered to ensure durability and ease of use. Despite a tight installation site, the bridge was assembled and launched with crane assistance in record time, opening to traffic in mid-October 2024.
Accelerated Construction
Acrow’s modular design is renowned for speeding up construction timelines. In this case, the temporary bridge enabled work on the permanent structure to continue without interruption. Dan Schrager, Business Development Manager for Acrow’s Southwest Region, highlighted the benefits: “Removing traffic from work zones is always the safest option for workers and motorists. When reasonable alternate routes are not available, Acrow’s durable modular detour bridges can provide a reliable, predictable route to minimise project impacts while cutting project costs through accelerated construction times.”
Russ Parisi, Vice President North America, echoed these sentiments, adding: “Available for rent or purchase, Acrow’s versatile detour solutions are an excellent choice to consider over phased construction during bridge repair or rehabilitation projects. Suitable for a wide range of urban and rural applications, they are quickly and easily built and installed and offer a cost-effective way to increase safety while cutting project timelines.”
Decades of Expertise in Modular Bridging
For more than 70 years, Acrow has been a trusted name in the transportation and construction industries, delivering modular steel bridging solutions tailored for a variety of applications. From permanent and temporary installations to military and emergency use, Acrow has left its mark on over 150 countries worldwide.
This Texas project exemplifies Acrow’s ability to adapt to local challenges. Whether it’s navigating tight spaces, addressing critical safety concerns, or ensuring cost efficiency, Acrow’s modular solutions consistently deliver.
Why Modular Bridges Are the Future
The benefits of modular steel bridges extend far beyond their immediate application. Their quick assembly, durability, and cost-effectiveness make them an attractive option for infrastructure projects worldwide. Here’s why they’re becoming a preferred choice:
- Flexibility: Modular bridges can be customised for various spans, widths, and load requirements.
- Reduced Costs: Their rapid installation reduces labour expenses and minimises disruption.
- Safety: By removing traffic from active work zones, they enhance safety for both workers and motorists.
- Sustainability: Reusable and recyclable, modular bridges align with global sustainability goals.
In Jefferson County, this approach has not only ensured the safety and convenience of the community but also set a benchmark for similar rural infrastructure projects.
Building a Bridge to the Future
As the Taylor Bayou Bridge project moves towards completion in early 2025, the temporary detour bridge remains a testament to the power of innovative engineering. For Jefferson County, it’s more than just a stopgap; it’s a symbol of resilience and forward-thinking infrastructure development.
Acrow’s modular solutions are proving that when it comes to bridging gaps—literal and figurative—there’s no such thing as a one-size-fits-all approach. Tailored to meet the unique needs of communities, these structures are paving the way for a more connected, efficient, and sustainable future.
