Published on : Friday, August 5, 2016
Union Pacific Railroad began construction this week on a new bridge over Bayou Lafourche in Donaldsonville, Louisiana. The 102-foot bridge replaces the existing crossing made up of box culverts. Work is currently scheduled to be completed by year’s end.
The new bridge is a key part of Louisiana’s efforts to reintroduce freshwater from the Mississippi River into Bayou Lafourche.”Once the bridge is complete, water will flow unimpeded through the crossing, allowing immediate increased pumping capacity,” said Ben Malbrough, Executive Director of the Bayou Lafourche Fresh Water District (BLFWD). “The Bayou Lafourche Fresh Water District can move forward on a project that more than doubles their current pumping capacity into Bayou Lafourche, as well as makes the potable water source for over 300,000 people more resilient. Desperately needed fresh water will be provided to combat saltwater intrusion and prevent further wetland loss in lower Terrebonne and Lafourche Parishes.”
“While the existing crossing meets Union Pacific’s operational needs, the project aligns with the company’s environmental commitment,” said Drew Tessier, Director of Public Affairs. “Union Pacific’s engineers designed a bridge structure that meets the needs of the BLFWD and the company’s operational demands.”
The project’s first phase includes construction of a temporary bridge over the bayou, alongside existing track allowing cranes and heavy equipment to access the area without disrupting train traffic. Once complete, 45 pilings will support the new structure which will consist of two sets of railroad tracks.
“Union Pacific urges drivers and pedestrians to be cognizant of construction, as well as abide all safety and warning signs,” said Tessier. “The safety of the community and construction team is of utmost concern.”
Source:-Union Pacific Rail
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