Douglas Highway CA

Project Detailsx

Servicesx

> Construction Administration
> Material Testing & Inspection

Project Overviewx

The Douglas Highway is a crucial route for vehicles, bicycles, and pedestrians, providing the only access between Douglas and Juneau. This roadway, along with the Gastineau Channel Bridge, required resurfacing, storm drain repairs, and sidewalk improvements to ensure safe and efficient travel.

To address these issues, the project constructed several storm drain improvements, including cure-in-place pipe, pipe slip lining, riprap for erosion protection, and new inlet structures. Pedestrian improvements, such as replacing curb ramps and sidewalks, were also made to improve accessibility for all users. Additionally, the roadway was resurfaced, and new traffic signs and markings were added.

Throughout the construction season, HDL’s construction administration (CA) team provided onsite inspection and material testing services. They worked closely with the design team and construction contractor to find quick solutions to any challenges that arose. Furthermore, the CA team promptly responded to questions, submittals, and change orders, which helped to keep the work on schedule.

Despite the project containing several complex elements, HDL’s team successfully completed the work in one season, as planned. The project’s completion ensured safer and more efficient travel for all those using the Douglas Highway and the Gastineau Channel Bridge.

This project also aimed to replace the four expansion joints on the bridge. Unfortunately, the existing condition of the expansion joints required a different design solution that was outside the scope of this resurfacing project. As a result, HDL worked with the construction contractor and the Department of Transportation and Public Facilities Southcoast Region to revise the scope of work for this major bid item.

This negotiation was challenging but necessary to ensure that the project was completed efficiently and within the allotted budget. HDL’s team provided valuable input and recommendations during these discussions, which helped to expedite the decision-making process. Ultimately, a solution was reached that satisfied all parties involved, and the project was able to move forward.