Utah construction season launches with new bridge over I-80

SALT LAKE CITY — The Utah Department of Transportation will begin the 2022 construction season with a bridge slide over I-80 from April 8, at 9 p.m. through April 10, at 1 p.m. 

A bridge slide is a method developed in Utah that makes bridge construction much faster than it has been in the past. Additionally, it has helped to lower traffic restrictions and delays for drivers. Construction crews will take down the current bridge over I-80 and then “slide in” and secure the new bridge. 

“During this closure, construction crews will demolish the existing 1700 East bridge over I-80 and slide the new bridge – which has been constructed next to the existing bridge – into place,” said UDOT. 

The new bridge includes a 14-foot-wide path on the west side. Additionally, the new bridge will include a bike lane and a sidewalk on the east side. 

UDOT said these new additions will ensure the safety of pedestrians and cyclists. Furthermore, officials expect that drivers will notice a much smoother ride. UDOT said the bridge slide over I-80 is one of 175 planned construction projects in Utah in 2022. 

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