EAST CHICAGO | Legalities to support the new Cline Avenue Bridge with toll funding were finalized Wednesday, officials said.
The legal agreements needed to move forward with the project were signed between the Indiana Department of Transportation, United Bridge Partners, a team of FIGG Bridge Cos., Lane Construction Group and American Infrastructure MLP Funds, according to a news release from the bridge companies.
It wasn't clear from the release if the groups have raised the necessary funds to build the bridge but noted it would be privately funded.
Under the agreement INDOT will cede the right of way for the bridge to private developer United Bridge Partners in exchange for land the bridge company owns after the demolition of the previous bridge is completed, the release states.
United Bridge Partners is performing land surveys and working to get permits for construction. Once demolition is complete, construction of the new bridge will begin. Construction is expected to last between 24 and 30 months.
The Cline Avenue Bridge was condemned in December 2009 after bridge inspectors found interior cables had rusted out, significantly weakening the 1.2-mile structure. State officials at various times have pledged to replace the bridge or construct a permanent detour.
Please Wait…