Bridge Construction Safer than Drivers Think

WSAZ-TV, WV

SOUTH CHARLESTON, W.Va. (WSAZ) -- It's a project that can't be missed. The I-64 construction between Dunbar and South Charleston continues to move forward, but now drivers can't help but look up to see what's going on.

The site is making some people question just how safe they are down below.

There can be 20 or more people working on the platform at one time.

The span has grown longer day by day, and has most recently begun towering above drivers on MacCorkle Avenue.

The construction project according to the Department of Highways is completely safe, but they also say they understand why to some drivers it might seem a little daunting.

"It is very safe," John Buchanan, project supervisor, said. "It’s been done all over the world, even longer spans than this."

Buchanan explained that they're using balanced cantilever construction to build the bridge, which means a balancing act. They pour 16 feet of concrete on one side and then go to the other side.

"We're taking every precaution we can to ensure the safety of the traveling public, the state workers and everyone," Buchanan said.

Even though it might seem to outsiders like they’re moving quickly, insiders see things a little differently.

"I look at what's yet to be done and there's a lot left to be done," Buchanan said.

The Department of Highways workers say they hope the bridge will be competed in October of 2010.