The $20 million I-495 bridge repair project could open weeks earlier than originally estimated.
DelDOT had originally estimated the southbound lanes would be open by Labor Day, September 1, but now believes the project could be open a few weeks earlier than expected, according to a release.
Two weeks to a month later the northbound lanes would open.
The construction of the 32 new underground support columns needed to repair the I-495 bridge was completed Wednesday..
Crews are also closing up the series of six-foot by six-foot holes that were made in the bridge deck. These holes were made to allow cranes to lower steel reinforcing cages, each 150 feet tall, into the cases that line each column prior to filling them with concrete.
Plans for the jacking process are being completed and engineers hope to begin this phase of the project on the southbound side of the bridge within the next two weeks.
The bridge closing came after piers were found to be out of alignment. The closing has resulted in heavy traffic on I-95 and other routes.
A DelDOT investigation found problems with the department responding in a speedy manner to reports by a motorist and engineer.
The emergency repairs are being made with permanent solution to come later.
On Thursday. President Obama will pay a visit to the Port of Wilmington to urge private investment in infrastructure. It was first reported he would tour the bridge site. The event is closed to the public and is expected to temporarily add to traffic woes.
