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Wilcox Bridge Replacement

Wilcox Blvd.

Planning
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District 8

Roads & Bridges

Roads & Bridges

Wilcox Blvd. Bridge Replacement

We are replacing the worn-out Wilcox Boulevard Bridge with a brand-new, modern structure over the DeButts Railyard. This isn't just a repair—it's a total $54.5 million upgrade that will reconnect East Chattanooga to the Riverwalk.

Project Highlights

  • Off-Alignment Build: A brand-new bridge will be constructed immediately south of the current deteriorating structure. This allows the current bridge to stay open (with weight limits) while the new one is built.
  • Modern Weight Capacity: The new bridge will restore access for CARTA buses, fire trucks, and heavy freight, which have been banned or restricted for years.
  • Bike and Pedestrian Friendly: It features a 12.5-foot wide multi-use path and a 6.5-foot pedestrian walkway, separated by a 4-foot buffer from vehicle traffic.
  • Rail Coordination: The bridge must span the DeButts Railyard, requiring precise coordination with Norfolk Southern and CSX rail operations.

Project Timeline

Start Date: Late 2026

Expected Completion: August 31, 2029

The Wilcox Boulevard Bridge Replacement project is currently in the Planning phase.

The project is being delivered using a Construction Manager/General Contractor (CM/GC) model, which is an "accelerated" method.

  • Design Phase: Currently being finalized by the engineering firm Alfred Benesch & Company.
  • CM/GC Selection: TDOT and the City finalized the selection of the Construction Manager in February 2025. This firm is currently working alongside designers to determine the most cost-effective construction methods before ground is broken for the new alignment.
  • Bidding/Procurement: While the main contractor is selected, the project is still in the "pre-construction services" phase where specific sub-bids for materials (steel, concrete) and specialty trades are being prepared.

Project Budget

The budget for the Wilcox Blvd. Bridge Replacement Project is as follows:

  • City's Share (Local Match): $12,911,000 (This includes the $12.8M transfer to TDOT plus a portion of the 10% contingency).
  • Federal RAISE Grant: $25,000,000.
  • Norfolk Southern Contribution: $10,000,000 (Private partner).
  • State of TN (TDOT): $5,000,000.
  • Hamilton County: $100,000.
  • Total Project Estimate: ~$54.5 Million.

Project Map