The Oklahoma Department of Transportation says the Highway 75 project near the Creek Turnpike ran into a few snags, and they needed a few weeks to get their bearings, literally.
After workers removed the decks from the bridge, they noticed it was in worse shape than anticipated. The bridge bearings, which are the pieces the beams sit on, ensure the expansion and contraction of the bridge.
During the construction project, officials realized the bridge needed new bearings, and they had to create a new plan. ODOT’s TJ Gerlach told KRMG they needed a few weeks to modify the project, but it should be completed by the end of the year.
“We’re still looking at the end of the year. Time-wise, we’re still looking pretty good. This contractor did have a pretty aggressive schedule,” Gerlach said.
It will raise the price slightly, but Gerlach says that’s part of the contingency with every project.
“There probably will be a change order on the contract, just to add in the extra cost,” he said.
