Old Indian River Inlet Bridge To Be Removed This Summer

Indian River -- The Department of Transportation (DelDOT) wishes to advise motorists that removal of the old Indian River Inlet Bridge and surrounding abutments is scheduled to occur this summer. The entire process is expected to take 8-10 weeks and has already begun. Initially the removal consists of sawcutting and removing the bridge railing and deck. Bridge beams and the concrete piers will be removed later this summer using a mechanical technique that is both environmentally sensitive and minimally impactive to the surroundings. Due to environmental issues, explosives will not be used to remove the old bridge structure.

Throughout the demolition, contractor will be taking steps to maintain the safety of the traveling public, pedestrians and motorists while continuing to maintain access to the park facilities and the waterways.

Mariners are advised that various stages of the demolition work may require the closure of a portion of the navigable channel under the bridge. When necessary the contractor will have watercraft in the waterway to guide boaters to safe corridors through the channel. Contractor watercraft and personnel will be monitoring marine channels 13 and 16 for further assistance. Mariners are requested to follow the instructions of contractor watercraft when present. The existing vertical clearance under the bridge and a portion of the inlet waterway will be maintained throughout the demolition process.

To maintain pedestrian access the contractor has installed protective shielding over the pathways on the north and south sides of the inlet channel under the bridge. Pedestrians walking through shielded areas are requested not to stop or stand under the protective shielding for prolonged periods. Pedestrians should also obey the instructions of construction personnel when present

Bridge demolition activities will be occurring on the old bridge, therefore, traffic on the new bridge will not be impacted by these activities.

Demolition working hours will be Monday through Saturday between the hours of 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Please refer to www.irib.deldot.gov and US Coast Guard's Notice to Mariners for regular updates.