The movable Willis Avenue Bridge, used by more than 70,000 vehicles daily, provides an important connection between Upper Manhattan and the Bronx. The original bridge, built in 1901, exhibited the effects of its age by the early 2000s, necessitating its replacement. The resulting $612 million New York City Department of Transportation (NYCDOT) project included the installation of new swing and fixed spans, reconstruction of two approach viaducts, and reconfiguration of highway interchanges.

EnTech provided REI services for the project including the Resident Engineer, chief inspector, construction inspectors, and office engineers, as well as environmental services. The REI team’s responsibilities included monitoring construction for safety, quality, and adherence to contract documents; overseeing the off-site fabrication of mechanical and electrical components, in addition to the swing span’s assembly at an upstate site; implementing extensive maintenance and protection of traffic (MPT) measures; and reviewing contractor payments, RFIs, and submittals. The EnTech staff contributed to significant cost savings by recommending or endorsing innovative solutions to multiple project challenges, ultimately helping the project finish within budget.

EnTech’s environmental team conducted hazardous material sampling; lab data review; remediation design; and abatement of lead, asbestos, and other hazardous materials in and around the structure.