The Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDoT) has awarded the final work package construction contract to the Ames Construction (Ames) for carrying out the final phase construction and rehabilitation works on the Winona Bridge in the US. 

The $27.8m contract will include reconstruction of the approach spans of bridge number 5900, along with all remaining roadway and site work. 

Last year, the state transport authority stopped all the processes for this project, after an engineering estimate showed a projected overall $30m cost growth over previous project estimates.

MnDoT worked with partners and the community to develop a solution that could achieve the required safety and historical needs for the existing bridge that was built in 1942.

While designing the solution, the transport department focused on upgrading the spans on Bridge 5900 in Winona in order to match the span lengths of new Bridge 85851, while saving approximately $2m.

As part of its new solution, MnDoT has used the construction manager / general contractor (CMGC) procurement method, where the owners, designers, and contractors work collaboratively to develop the project scope, optimise the design, improve quality and manage cost. 

"There is a risk with a project this complex, but it also provides flexibility and speed, which we feel has benefited the community and its transportation needs."

Through cost savings and use of CMGC method, MnDoT is reported to have saved $17.4m.

Minnesota Department of Transportation construction project manager Terry Ward said: “This was MnDoT’s first project where used the construction manager / general contractor procurement method and we’re pleased with how it’s allowed us to work in an accelerated fashion, but also adjust and work to find savings as the project advanced.

“There is a risk with a project this complex, but it also provides flexibility and speed, which we feel has benefited the community and its transportation needs.”

The overall construction letting amounts for all six work packages is $145.8m.

Currently, Ames is engaged in the removal of approach spans on Bridge 5900 that will be replaced as part of the rehabilitation.

The rehabilitation works are expected to continue until late 2019 or early 2020.