Michael Baker International awarded Scudder Falls Bridge replacement design contract

Hamilton, N.J. – Replacement of the existing 55-year-old, functionally obsolete Scudder Falls Bridge, a vital job commuter connection between Pennsylvania and New Jersey which carries I-95 over the Delaware River, came one step closer to breaking ground as the Delaware River Joint Toll Bridge Commission (DRJTBC) awarded Michael Baker International, as prime consultant, a $22.49 million replacement bridge design contract.

Among the most anticipated and significant transportation infrastructure projects in the region, the new Scudder Falls Bridge Replacement Project, with an overall program cost of $327 million, is expected to enter full construction in 2017.

The entire project area involves 4.4 miles of I-95, with traffic volume approaching 60,000 vehicles per day, in Mercer County, N.J. and Bucks County, Pa. The multi-faceted project includes construction of a new twin-span bridge with additional lanes and federally required shoulders, reconfiguration and reconstruction of the immediately adjoining intersections and improvements along approach roadways in both states. The project also calls for a pedestrian/bicycle connection and noise walls.

“There’s an aggressive design and construction schedule and we intend to stage the project to minimize impacts to the travelling public while being sensitive to the environment,” said Michael Baker International’s Mike Sidani, P.E. vice president and project manager. “Our proposed innovative design and construction strategies will meet the challenges and help achieve the overarching project goals. Ultimately, this project will alleviate traffic congestion, upgrade safety and traffic conditions and enhance the overall mobility of the entire region.”