The SR 15 (US 17) 4-Laning over Dunns Creek project in Palatka has been crowned the recipient of the prestigious 2023 ACEC Florida Outstanding Bridge Award!
The origins of this project stem from the development of the FDOT’s Strategic Intermodal System, which was founded upon providing a high-priority network of transportation facilities important to the state’s economy and mobility. Per the FDOT, “The SIS is the state’s highest priority for transportation capacity investments and a primary focus for implementing the Florida Transportation Plan (FTP), the state’s long-range transportation vision and policy plan.”
ETM was honored to provide Construction, Engineering and Inspection (CEI) services on this influential FDOT project, alongside Design Consultants Jacobs and Geotechnical & Environmental Consultants, Inc.
The complexity of this venture included the orchestration of limited working space, access limitations, and the implementation of multiple Traffic Control Plan (TCP) phases to carve out suitable workspaces. Divided into four distinct TCP phases with four Special Detours, this project demanded meticulous planning and execution.
In addition, this project presented various scheduling challenges, with material deliveries emerging as one of the most formidable obstacles. Situated in a remote rural area, commercial facilities and material suppliers were located at considerable distances. The logistics demanded careful planning to ensure timely deliveries, avoiding any miscalculations or material quality issues that could have caused production delays. Through diligent coordination, the team successfully navigated these challenges, showcasing a commitment to delivering excellence on time.
Innovation thrived in the technical aspects of this project. The team incorporated groundbreaking concepts during both the design and construction phases. Notably, Column Supported Embankment was utilized as an alternative to full-depth subsoil excavation, mitigating feasibility concerns and saving the District more than $500,000. Overcoming conflicts with an existing gas main, the team implemented partial subsoil excavation combined with dual-layer Geosynthetic Reinforced Embankments to support the shared-use path.
This project was completed and opened to the public in the Spring of 2022. The completion of this project accomplishes another step in the advancement of Florida’s SIS network for the benefit of its users. This project, which extends for 2 miles, adds another section of the ever-advancing shared-use path corridor which borders SR 15 in Palatka, providing a recreational aspect to the citizens of Putnam County and its visitors.
About England-Thims & Miller, Inc.
Founded in 1977, ETM is Florida’s leading infrastructure and development consultant, specializing in Development Consulting, Utility and Water Resources, Geospatial Technologies, Transportation Planning/Design, Construction Engineering & Inspection (CEI), and Surveying. ETM provides services to both public and private sector clients throughout North and Central Florida.
