Engineers: bridge design at 30% — commissioners warned of long lead times for structural steel
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Summary
The bridge reconstruction plans are at 30% completion. Commissioners were told that large structural-steel components and locking mechanisms have long fabrication lead times (potentially 9–12 months), prompting discussion of preorder or early procurement strategies.
Commissioners received a project update indicating the reconstruction plans are approximately 30% complete. Staff provided 11x17 prints of structural, mechanical and conceptual electrical drawings and confirmed that H and H (the engineering firm) is adding additional structural truss and main-support detail to the current package.
Commission member Chris Johnson expressed concern about long lead times for major structural elements, saying structural steel components and locking mechanisms could take nine months to a year to fabricate at national mills that are operating at high capacity. Johnson recommended developing a long-lead procurement plan or preordering materials to avoid schedule slips. Staff and the engineer indicated they would investigate preordering options (for example, reserving tonnage) and consider early procurement where feasible.
Staff confirmed the next design milestones and invited commissioners to participate in upcoming design meetings; the commission expected another project discussion at the next meeting scheduled for Thursday at 9 a.m.