The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) is preparing for an extensive, multi-year repair and upgrade project on the Portage Lake Lift Bridge between Houghton and Hancock.
Work will include removing and replacing the upper and lower decks of the lift span, replacing the northernmost span’s concrete deck, partial bridge painting and other miscellaneous repairs and upgrades.
Project plans are currently being designed, reviewed and compiled using an innovative construction manager/general contractor (CM/GC) process.
“We have a contractor providing input on various aspects of the project through the entire design process,” explained Al Anderson, MDOT construction engineer at the Ishpeming Transportation Service Center (TSC). “This process improves constructability and identifies potential pitfalls, so these items can be vetted and solutions can be found early on.”
From this collaborative process, a new idea on how to build a central part of the project has emerged, warranting further consideration. The project start is being moved back to allow time to explore the feasibility of replacing the entire lift span rather than making improvements to the existing lift span in place. This would involve first building an entirely new lift span off site, then disconnecting and floating out the old span on barges, and floating in the replacement within a brief window of time. This is the way the original lift span was installed in 1959.
This approach could significantly reduce traffic impacts for motorists, provide a higher quality final product and better overall long-term value. If this new concept is deemed feasible, construction could start in 2028 and be completed over two or three years.
If the new concept doesn’t pass muster, the project would likely start in 2027, with the original plan of repairing the lift span in place. Under this scenario, major work would be completed over four years, including three full winters of work on the lift span, wrapping up in spring 2031.
“Throughout this process, our goal has been to make high-quality, lasting repairs to the bridge while minimizing impacts on the traveling public as much as possible,” said MDOT Ishpeming TSC Manager Rob Tervo. “Taking the time to explore this new idea directly supports that goal.”
Regardless of how the repairs proceed, motorists and other bridge users should expect significant traffic disruptions during some phases of the project.
MDOT will work through the CM/GC process to review construction details, staging and duration for installing a new center span, in addition to pursuing environmental and regulatory approvals. As the plans develop, MDOT will continue to involve the surrounding communities and key partners to identify any concerns and attempt to mitigate them.
“The city really appreciated MDOT making us part of the process over the last several years, given the potential traffic disruptions and how the work could affect Houghton’s traffic,” said Houghton City Manager Eric Waara. “A lot of planning and back and forth has gone into minimizing the effects on drivers where possible.”
More information will be released as options are narrowed and various project phases approach. Up-to-date traffic information will be online at www.Michigan.gov/Drive.
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