Fixing Access to Rural Missouri (FARM) Bridge Program

Delivering the best value within a fixed budget was challenging due to the volatile materials market, with a 20% cost increase caused by COVID-19. Early material procurement, design/construction efficiencies, and the innovative SDCL solution mitigated overages by expanding the steel market, increasing competition, and keeping pricing down. Accelerated construction methods utilizing smaller girders allowed for smaller crossings/work pads that helped reduce equipment and labor costs while maintaining quality, successfully completing the project within budget despite the volatile materials market.

The SDCL approach, which was a new design concept for MoDOT, enabled multi-span structures with short, shallow steel girders, eliminating roadway grade raises, lowering material costs through expanded markets, and increasing construction efficiencies. This innovation maximized bridge replacements within budget, benefiting local farming communities despite an ambitious two-year timeline requiring extensive planning and collaboration.

Throughout the two-year span of this dynamic design-build project, we had 122,099 man hours worked with no lost-time accidents over 31 bridge locations. This was achieved by utilizing our company’s internal practices, “Target Zero Policy” and “Stop Work Authority,” to ensure the safety and well-being of our team throughout the duration of the project.

This project positively impacted surrounding rural communities by replacing poor-conditioned, weight-restricted, single-lane bridges on timber piles with new infrastructure. The improved bridges provided safer access for travelers and enhanced transportation routes, benefiting local businesses and the agriculture industry. The project's innovative practices were recognized by the AGC of Missouri with a 2024 Keystone Award.