Friday, March 29, 2024

N. White Chapel Bridge Construction Update

Construction crews continue to make progress on the N. White Chapel Culvert crossing bridge.

The road has been closed since late September when heavy rain and floodwater caused structural damage.

While the weather has improved, several environmental factors have caused some delays. City staff along with construction crews devised a plan to help continue progress.

“We made adjustments to the piling in an attempt to drain the creek quicker, as pumping typically occurs rather slowly,” explained Deputy Director of Public Works and City Engineer, Kyle Hogue. “We have also resumed excavation of the west upstream headwall.”

While construction has been underway since just after Thanksgiving, the city is working to potentially prevent future damages during inclement weather.

A few weeks ago Council Member John Huffman visited the site. “This short term solution is making everything safe, making everything drivable, in really the shortest timeframe possible” stated Council Member John Huffman in his Facebook Live video. Check out the video to get an up-close look at construction.

You can stay up-to-date by visiting www.ConnectSouthlake.com and the Southlake Mobility Facebook page.

N. White Chapel Bridge to Remain Closed

Based on the recommendation of a third-party structural engineering consultant, the N. White Chapel bridge, at the creek crossing north of Wingate Lane, will remain closed until further notice.

The bridge was severely damaged as a result of heavy rainfalls on Friday, September 21. The heavy rain and floodwaters buckled the asphalt on the bridge deck and damaged parts of the bridge’s foundation.

The City is waiting for the consultant to provide repair options. Once options are presented, the City will determine the best course of action and will be able to provide a better timeline for the duration of the closure.

“Unfortunately this is not a quick process,” noted Public Works Director Rob Cohen. “Safety is our top priority, and right now the bridge is just not safe to open. I understand this is inconvenient, but we want to make sure the proper repairs are made and do what we can to avoid this happening again. In the meantime, I appreciate everyone’s patience and understanding as we work to provide the best solution.”

Water barricades and detours are in place as an extra safety precaution to prevent access to the bridge. Updates can be found on ConnectSouthlake.com and the Southlake Mobility Facebook page.