Broward County Releases Rail Bridge Designs
Written by Jennifer McLawhorn, Managing Editor
Three designs were unveiled for bridge crossing New River in Ft. Lauderdale.
Courtesy of Broward County and TYLin
BROWARD COUNTY, Fla. - Broward County has released conceptual designs for a bridge over New River in Fort Lauderdale.
According to a news release from Broward County Commission, these bridges will allow trains to cross New River whilst “boosting economic development.” The designs include replacing the existing steel structure with more modern rail crossings for both passenger and freight trains. It will also “help address the limitations of the previous bridge for marine traffic and rail service.” Developed by the firm TYLin, the designs below “incorporate significant aesthetic elements,” according to TYLin’s project manager, Joseph Yesbeck.
The existing bridge has “impeded marine navigation and boat passage,” a problem that has since been exacerbated since “the advent of Brightline’s passenger rail service running from Miami to Orlando and its increased frequency of train crossings.” After studies, such as the Joint Study by Fort Lauderdale and Broward County, assessed the options, conclusions led to a bascule bridge for its cost-effectiveness.
Now, Broward County is committed to developing a bridge project that balances the structural needs with the City’s urban development needs as well as the “preservation of the region’s marine industry, while protecting the environment and historical assets.” The estimated cost for one of the designs is in the range of $470 to $495 million, similar to the Florida Department of Transportation’s cost estimates of $243 to $474 million. Moving forward, Broward County will now “actively seek partnerships with local, state, and federal entities to advance this transformative project” in an effort to improve the region.
The entire span of the new bridges are under a half-mile long. Broward Mayor Nan Rich said these are “shorter, more compact bridge designs that will likely stay within the railroad property boundaries, eliminating the need to acquire private property.” He went on to say that the “County has outlined a process which will give stakeholders the opportunity to help shape the final design and ensure that it reflects local values and priorities as much as possible resulting in a new iconic landmark.”
County Administrator Monica Cepero said the new concept is “more than just a transportation upgrade; it’s a testament to our commitment to a thriving, interconnected community. . . This new approach to crossing the New River will not only enhance our transportation network, but also showcase Broward County as a leader in innovative infrastructure development.”
