GO-10

The job involved:

• 1 million cubic yards of earthwork
• 201,000 square feet of new retaining walls
• 29 new bridges
• 4 bridge widenings.

The net effect of the completed project is improved traffic flow for all users. Collector-distributor (CD) collect and distribute vehicles in a more efficient manner, reducing the need for merging and eliminating unnecessary entrance and exit points. Nonstop traffic will be able to pass through, while drivers entering and exiting will be able to do so unencumbered, reducing the risk of accidents. When emergencies do occur, the CD lane system will also allow first responders better access and more room to address incidents.

Worth nearly $160 million, GO 10 is the largest hard-bid project to date for TxDOT’s El Paso district. Because of the importance of this corridor for regional travel and commerce, Sundt worked diligently to expedite the schedule without causing traffic delays or compromising safety. Solutions included performing a majority of work at night and on weekends, critical path work to maintain a significant workforce, and modifying original phasing plans so multiple activities could be done simultaneously. To maintain individual and public safety, crews employed numerous traffic control and jobsite safety measures; these included barricades, secondary water-filled barriers, police presence, and a “dragnet” system for errant vehicles similar to technology used on aircraft carriers. Despite a slower start than anticipated, the project reached substantial completion four months ahead of schedule.