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Globe follows up with replacement of Connie’s Bridge

Andrea Justice
Posted 3/25/20

On Tuesday night the City of Globe looked at following through with the replacement of the Pinal Creek Bridge (Connie’s Bridge)

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Globe follows up with replacement of Connie’s Bridge

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On Tuesday night the City of Globe looked at following through with the replacement of the Pinal Creek Bridge (Connie’s Bridge). The council met to discuss and possibly approve a contract with EPS Group, for design and public outreach for the replacement of the bridge in an amount not to exceed $415,107. City staff has budgeted the needed funds for this project and road work around this project.

Back in 2015, the City of Globe had a total of seven bridges that were deficient and in need of repair or replacement. The City had a complete assessment of the seven bridges and their current condition. After analyzing these inspection reports it was determined that the City’s number one priority was the replacement of the Upper Pinal Creek Bridge (Connie’s Bridge). According to a background report found on the City website, the reason for the recommendation for replacement of the bridge was the “scour damage around the piers and exposed rebar”. These reasons along with cracking of the decks showed that a replacement would be the most cost-effective solution for the City of Globe.

In 2017, the City looked for funding for this project. Detailed cost estimates were provided for the new bridge location. Once cost was defined, the City applied to Central Arizona Governments (CAG) and was able to receive approximately $600,000 for roadway improvement.

The City then applied to ADOT for $1 million in Off System bridge funds but were denied after the Federal Highway Administration determined that the roadway classification for Jesse Hayes road made it ineligible for funding.

The City then contacted the State Legislature regarding the extra funding needed and has received the requested monies from the state as needed to complete the Connie’s Bridge project.

After advertising for bids on this project, the City received six responses. The City’s review panel interviewed three potential companies and decided that EPS was the most qualified. According to the City website, negotiations have been held concerning fees and the City staff recommends entering into a contract with EPS at this time.