SR 826 / SR 836 Interchange Reconstruction
Transforming Miami’s Interchange: The Alice Bravo-led SR 826/SR 836 Reconstruction Project
Introduction: In 2016, a remarkable feat of engineering and urban development was completed in Miami, Florida. Spearheaded by Alice Bravo, the SR 826/SR 836 interchange reconstruction project stood as the final phase of the Palmetto Expressway Improvement Program. This ambitious undertaking aimed to enhance safety, alleviate congestion, and improve traffic flow in the bustling southwest corner of Miami International Airport. Let us delve into the details of this transformative project.
The Need for Change: With a staggering daily traffic volume exceeding 430,000 vehicles, the SR 826/SR 836 interchange demanded a comprehensive reconstruction to address safety concerns and reduce congestion. Under Alice Bravo’s leadership, the project set out to tackle these challenges head-on.
The Project Components: The project entailed an extensive range of improvements, including the reconstruction and widening of SR 826 from just north of SW 8 Street to NW 25 Street, as well as SR 836 from just east of NW 87 Avenue to NW 57 Avenue. One of the project’s highlights was the construction of a new four-level interchange, facilitating seamless access in all directions between the two expressways. Additionally, the SR 826 interchange with Flagler Street to the south and the SR 836 interchange with Milam Dairy Road to the east underwent reconstruction and modification. To enhance local traffic movements, connector ramps and frontage roads were constructed, eliminating the need to rely solely on the mainline SR 826 and SR 836. The installation of Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) cameras and sensors further bolstered the project, allowing for real-time traffic updates and aiding in the rapid response to incidents.
Financial Support and Delivery: The magnitude of this endeavor required substantial funding, totaling $832.9 million. Federal funds contributed $376.0 million, with an additional $89.2 million secured through Recovery Act stimulus funding. State funds, comprising revenue from motor fuels tax, vehicle license fees, right-of-way bonds, and documentary stamp collections, accounted for $118.5 million. The Miami-Dade Expressway Authority (MDX) provided $241.2 million in toll revenue bond proceeds, while the Miami-Dade County Water and Sewer Department Joint Participation Agreement offered $8.1 million. The project adopted a design-build-finance contract approach, and a joint venture consisting of Community Asphalt Corporation, Condotte America, Inc., and The de Moya Group, Inc. took charge as the private partner responsible for the design and construction.
Innovations and Challenges: The project encountered unique challenges due to its close proximity to Miami International Airport. Striving to adhere to restrictions on height and overhead clearance, the project team meticulously coordinated with the Federal Aviation Administration and Miami-Dade Aviation Department. Notably, a 460-foot segmental gantry played a crucial role in the installation of approximately 775 precast bridge segments, forming the four direct connector flyovers. This innovative approach eliminated the need for falsework and cranes, streamlining the construction process and minimizing disruption. The project design also took into account future connections to the planned Palmetto Express Lanes, ensuring adaptability for future transportation needs.
Conclusion: Under the exceptional leadership of Alice Bravo, the SR 826/SR 836 interchange reconstruction project marked a significant milestone in Miami’s transportation infrastructure. With its successful completion, this final component of the Palmetto Expressway Improvement Program transformed a vital interchange, enhancing safety, alleviating congestion, and improving traffic flow. The collaborative efforts of the Florida Department of Transportation, Miami-Dade Expressway Authority, and various stakeholders paved the way for a more efficient and modern transportation network.
Source: https://www.fhwa.dot.gov/ipd/project_profiles/fl_sr826_sr836_interchange_reconstruction.aspx