Pierre-Fort Pierre Bridge Project
The westbound outside lane over the Pierre-Fort Pierre Bridge is currently closed from the start of the bridge in Pierre through the U.S. Highway 14/83 intersection in Fort Pierre as crews work to reconstruct the intersection in preparation for the new bridge.
Project Update
June 8, 2023: Work on the Pierre-side abutment mechanically stabilizing earth (MSE) wall continued as crews piled up rock and soil over varying levels of reinforcing metal straps. This process uses the weight of the soil and rock to resist lateral pressures, or pressure that soil exerts in the horizontal direction from the earth. The concrete level pad for the second MSE wall has also been set on the Pierre-side as well. To ensure a pleasing aesthetic and uniform appearance across the length of the wall, the team will install precast coping to the top edge of the panel walls.
In addition to the MSE wall, crews also continued working on modifications to the U.S. Highway 14/U.S. Highway 83 intersection, installed girder beams toward bent five, and placed concrete for the Fort Pierre-side abutment.
Public Safety Information
A historic bridge project is in progress in the Pierre-Fort Pierre, South Dakota, area.
While the John C. Waldron Memorial Bridge still stands, it’s critical that the structure be replaced. The bridge was opened in 1962 and is showing signs of deterioration, which can cause a variety of issues. The current structure carries U.S. Highways 14 and 83, along with S.D. Highway 34. The structure is a crossing point over the Missouri River between Fort Pierre and Pierre.
In 2016, the South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT) performed a bridge replacement study, with intentions of gathering more information to justify a structure replacement. After years of studying and planning, the SDDOT decided to move forward with building a completely new bridge. Construction of the new bridge began in November of 2020.
The new structure is being constructed just 10 feet north of the existing John C. Waldron Memorial Bridge. The new bridge will have updated features for functionality, user enjoyment, and aesthetics. The new bridge is anticipated to be open for traffic in the summer of 2024. Total project completion is anticipated for summer 2025.
Phase One – Underwater substructure construction and beginning roadway approach work.
Phase Two – Westbound lane construction and signal work.
Phase Three – Eastbound lane construction.
Phase Four – Demolition of old bridge and construction of Pierre and Fort Pierre plazas.