Ever mindful of changing weather patterns, crews in Mobile continue working on a $79 million project that replaces the aging westbound span of the Tensaw River Bridge on the U.S. Highway 90 Causeway. According to the Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT), the new span will be constructed to the south of the current eastbound bridge, helping to minimize traffic during construction.
"This bridge is a vital transportation link," ALDOT southwest region engineer Matthew Ericksen told Construction Equipment Guide. "Replacing it now ensures it continues serving the region safely, and efficiently, for decades to come."
A key route on the U.S. 90 Causeway, the Tensaw River Bridge serves thousands of daily commuters, travelers and commercial vehicles. Because the existing westbound bridge has reached the end of its service life, building a new structure guarantees the corridor remains a critical connection.
Judson Scott/Scott Bridge Company photo
When asked by Construction Equipment Guide about the need for construction at this time, ALDOT communications and public relations coordinator James Gordon explained, "This project strengthens one of southwest Alabama's most important transportation corridors, supporting commerce, tourism and the long-term economic growth of the Mobile area."
The replacement bridge, featuring a durable concrete structure designed to withstand the elements and improve structural integrity, is being built to modern standards. The upgrade includes a dedicated pedestrian and bicycle path, providing safe routes for everyone traveling near Battleship Memorial Park.
Environmental protection has been a priority throughout construction. The project includes measures to protect endangered species, aquatic habitats and submerged aquatic vegetation through specialized construction practices, employee training and environmental monitoring.
General contractor Scott Bridge Co. Inc. of Opelika, Ala., is working with federal agencies, including the U.S. Coast Guard, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Federal Highway Administration. According to ALDOT, this ensures the project meets environmental regulations and maintains safe waterway access for boats traveling under the bridge during construction.
Judson Scott/Scott Bridge Company photo
The new structure is designed to current engineering standards with improved structural components, increased durability and accommodations for pedestrians and cyclists. The bridge incorporates modern materials, deep foundations and structural designs intended to better resist coastal weather, corrosion and the demands of daily traffic.
The existing westbound bridge remains open throughout construction, allowing motorists to continue their travels with little disruption while the new bridge is built alongside it. Limited vehicle lane closures will occur during non-peak hours, ensuring minimal disruption for daily commuters. Motorists have reportedly been supportive of the project and appreciate that traffic is being maintained during construction.
The project also will boost economic development, supporting tourism, freight movement and local businesses. It will also improve access to Battleship Memorial Park, state parks, seafood restaurants, Austal USA and downtown Mobile.
Construction is progressing, but crews must stay focused at all times. Samuel Fountain, ALDOT southwest region area construction engineer, told Construction Equipment Guide, "Working over water presents unique challenges, including marine logistics, changing weather conditions, environmental regulations and specialized foundation construction."
Currently, workers are building the bridge substructure and approach embankments, installing girders and progressing with seawall and approach work. All bridge footings have already been completed; wick drains have been installed to stabilize the foundation soils; and utility relocation work has progressed successfully.
Fountain said numerous steps are required to replace the westbound span.
"Major phases include foundation construction, pile installation, substructure work, girder erection, bridge deck construction, approach work and final paving.
"The foundations required driving 54-inch spun-cast cylindrical concrete piles and constructing all bridge footings. Completing the foundation work is a major milestone. It reflects the tremendous effort of the construction team and keeps the project on track to deliver long-term benefits for the region."
Judson Scott/Scott Bridge Company photo
Approximately 150,000 cu. yds. of fill material have been placed for the bridge approaches. Remaining work includes girder installation, bridge superstructure construction, approach fills, seawall construction, abutments, paving and final bridge finishes.
Construction over a bay requires unique foundation techniques that are not always needed on traditional land-based projects. The project relies heavily on marine equipment, including barges and crawler cranes mounted on barges. Pile-driving machinery is also necessary to carry out the work, as well as wick-drain installation and utility-boring equipment.
Major materials include 54-in. spun-cast concrete piles, structural concrete and reinforcing steel. Structural steel girders and more than 1 million ft. of wick drains are also needed to complete the project.
Judson Scott/Scott Bridge Company photo
Fountain noted that crews must pay close attention to the forecast.
"Weather, tides and tropical systems can affect marine operations and scheduling. This requires crews to adjust work activities while maintaining safety and productivity."
Construction began in December 2025, with work expected to be completed by mid-2028. According to Gordon, the multi-million dollar investment and long hours will pay off in the long run.
"Projects like this have a lasting impact on the communities we serve. We're building infrastructure that improves safety, strengthens our transportation network and supports economic growth for generations to come."
