Foster Avenue Bridge over I-90

Due to the deteriorated condition of the Foster Avenue bridge over I-90 (JFK Expressway), IDOT contracted with Hampton, Lenzini and Renwick, Inc. (HLR) to provide a Phase I study to address the bridge’s deficiencies and provide alternatives for its rehabilitation.

The existing four-span structure (395’ total length) was built in 1958 and consists of riveted plate girders with closed abutments. HLR conducted a bridge inspection and several rehabilitation alternatives were evaluated. These alternatives included deck replacement, superstructure replacement, and full replacement to accommodate a future-widened I-90. Preliminary designs and cost estimates were prepared and analyzed.

IDOT selected the full replacement option, as this alternative will provide for a rehabilitated structure while accommodating the widening of I-90 to include four travel lanes in each direction with full-width inside and outside shoulders. Thermal spray or galvanizing is proposed to be used on the steel girders to decrease future maintenance costs of the structure. I-90 ramp traffic will be detoured during construction and Foster Avenue will be reconstructed using staged construction.

Scope of Work:

• Field inspections
• Topographic survey
• Intersection design study to add left turn channelization on Foster Avenue at the WB I-90 ramps intersection
• Environmental coordination
• Geometric design
• Bridge condition report
• Location drainage study
• Crash analysis
• Detour report
• Project report prepared to federally-approved categorical exclusion requirements

Learn more about preliminary engineering services at HLR.