Mackinac Bridge Authority receives award of excellence

Contact: Bob Sweeney, Mackinac Bridge Authority, 906-743-7600

Agency: Transportation

December 11, 2009 -- The Asphalt Paving Association of Michigan (APAM) yesterday presented the Mackinac Bridge Authority (MBA), Payne and Doylan, Inc., and Northwest Design Group the Award of Excellence paving award. The award showcased a two-year resurfacing effort on the bridge deck in the special projects category.

"Not only was a high-quality project delivered for the benefit of the motorists, but this partnership helped to lay the foundation for how work can be done in the future," said MBA Executive Secretary Bob Sweeney. "We worked very well with the consultant on project management and inspection, and are pleased with the end result."

The project included resurfacing of a 4.2-mile stretch of the bridge deck, and concrete curb and joint repair on the bridge in Mackinaw City and St. Ignace. It took two years to complete the project with the northbound lanes being paved in 2008 and the southbound lanes earlier this year. Two-way traffic was maintained on one side of the bridge during the construction.

The new asphalt was an innovative mix specially designed by the Michigan Department of Transportation to be water and rut resistant. The award was presented at the 2009 APAM Asphalt Paving Awards program.