The $57.2 million project began in February 2022 and was completed on time and on budget. The project replaced the I-76 Bridge over Klemm Avenue, Conrail, and the South Branch of Newton Creek. The bridge replacement was done in stages using Accelerated Bridge Construction (ABC) methods using prefabricated materials and Ultra High Performance Concrete UHPC to minimize the impact to traffic and reduce construction time.

The completion of the project is a major milestone in infrastructure development in South New Jersey. Despite facing numerous obstacles, this project has successfully reached its conclusion, marking a significant achievement in enhancing transportation infrastructure in the region.

THE CHALLENGE
 

• This project required the construction of a 4 span, 300 foot long, precast superstructure at an accelerated and hyper build pace where Ductal’s Ultra High Performance Concrete UHPC played a crucial role in the connection joints. The Route 76 Bridge spans over top of Klemm Avenue, a Conrail Railroad track, and the South Branch Newton Creek. The superstructure is also located at the heart of one of New Jersey’s busiest highways, as it serves as a main route for traffic to enter and leave Philadelphia.
• Due to minimal working space, this bridge had to be constructed in four separate stages with a movable barrier system used daily in the median of the highway to accommodate the heavy rush hour traffic. This bridge construction also required the use of a Liebherr LR 11,000, which is by far the largest crane South State has ever used. This type of large scale and accelerated construction always poses a challenge.

Collaboration
 

• Ductal Structural Mix Design emerged as the optimal solution for this project. Its unparalleled strength, durability, and low permeability will ensure longevity and minimized maintenance requirements, making it ideal for enhancing the structural integrity of the overpass. By deploying Ductal engineered solutions, we not only addressed immediate needs but also safeguarded the durability and resilience of the infrastructure for generations to come.
• The successful completion of Route 76 Over Klemm Avenue would not have been possible without the dedication and expertise of our partners, South State and NJDOT/NJ TRANSIT. Their unwavering commitment to excellence and collaboration played a crucial role in overcoming challenges and delivering exceptional results.
• Ductal’s team commitment to excellence drove us to optimize our mix design to adher to the highest standards of environmental stewardship. Stringent safety measures were implemented by the contractor to protect commuters, infrastructure and wildlife.