FAQs

What is a Design/Build Project?

Design/Build is an innovative approach to construction. Traditional phases of construction project include:
     1. Preliminary Planning and Engineering (design)
     2. Selection of a Construction Contractor (bid)
     3. Project Construction (build)

The design/build process combines stages 1 & 3 (design & build). With this process engineers prepare the design while construction is proceeding. Using the design/build process as opposed to a traditional construction approach generally results in shorter construction times and lessened traffic impacts. Design/Build is anticipated to shorten construction time by maximum of two years for this project.

What are the Project Boundaries?

Approximately 1500' west of Monte Vista Road overpass back east to 750' east of Sand Hill Road overpass. I-40 corridor.

Will Construction Affect Traffic?

During construction, the Design Builder has developed detailed traffic control plans and construction phasing plans. Significant construction activities that disrupt traffic will be performed during off peak hours.

The Design Builder has committed to have four lanes open (two in each direction) at all times during construction. Temporary Lane closures will be utilized during non peak hours. Existing ramps and lanes of the traffic interchanges will remain open.

How will the major traffic shifts be completed?

T&M will take advantage of the allowed lane closure time to complete the multiple operations required for a major interstate shift, completing this work all in one night!

What is an Auxiliary Lane?

An auxiliary lane is a continuous lane from an entrance ramp to the next exit ramp to improve traffic merging. Merging is what causes slow downs and backups, and the auxiliary lanes provide the necessary space required for merging traffic at higher speeds and minimizing disruption to the through flow of traffic along I-40.

What is the Duration of the Project?

This is a 32-month project with a completion date of July 11, 2008. Anything not complete by this date is subject to a $10,000 per day penalty.

How are you actually managing the construction?

Phase I: We constructed two lanes in the existing median for use throughout the project, and replaced signals along US 19/23 at the ramp interchanges. The Intelligent Transportation System (electronic warning system for drivers) goes in place in May 2008, and is used for the remaining phases.

Phase II: The existing two westbound lanes are now part of the new median lanes. We constructed a new outside auxiliary lane and overlayed the existing two lanes on I-40 westbound lane, adding a new inside lane. This phase is complete. Three lanes are now open.

Phase III: Three new westbound lanes completed in Phase II are now in use. The eastbound lanes are now in the median. We are now constructing the new eastbound lane. We will complete the sound wall along I-40 eastbound lane in spring of 2008.

Phase IV: Place the two east bound lanes from the median into the new east bound lanes completed in Phase III. Construct the permanent median barrier rail throughout the project and complete the median lanes.

Phase V: OPEN ALL FOUR LANES IN EACH DIRECTION!

How will emergency vehicles retain access during construction?

Taylor & Murphy will maintain contact with emergency services and provide information about access during each phase.