Ann Arbor Bridges Dedicated After $22.8 Million Revamp
The two bridges benefitting from the project connect the east and west sides of the Michigan city.
Two Ann Arbor, Mich. bridges got a facelift with the help of the U.S. Department of Transportation. This week, federal and state officials attended the dedication of the bridges -- connections between the east and west sides of the city.
The bridges, now improved for safety, were the focus of the $22.8 million project. More than $13 million was granted by DOT's TIGER (Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery) program.
The project began in 2011 and was a priority of the city's transportation department. Two bridges were replaced, an endeavor that created hundreds of jobs. It is estimated these bridges transport 17,000 drivers and 200 pedestrians daily.
"Upgrading our infrastructure allows us to both put people to work and strengthen the economy," said Federal Highway Administrator Victor Mendez. "This project makes travel safer for Ann Arbor residents while offering greater transportation choices."
Both bridges were constructed in 1928 and were in need of horizontal and vertical clearances.