The bridge connects the intersection of Casper Holstein Drive, Queen Mary Highway, and East Airport Road to Route 707 just west of the V.I. Superior Court. Photo Credit: V.I. CONSORTIUM
The Queen Mary Highway Bridge, which reopened in July after a lengthy closure for repairs, is set to undergo additional work, according to a statement from the V.I. Department of Public Works. The announcement comes after defects were discovered at the bridge entrances, prompting the need for further repairs.
Beginning Tuesday, October 1, the bridge will be closed for two days to allow the contractor, Custom Builders, to remove the asphalt on the bridge deck and replace it. The repairs are expected to be completed by Wednesday, October 2, 2024. The closure will allow for the application of a specialized bonding agent, which arrived on the island last week, ensuring the new asphalt adheres properly to the bridge surface.
DPW Commissioner Derek Gabriel previously addressed concerns from the public regarding the condition of the bridge, assuring residents that the issues were not structural. “We have received several calls from concerned citizens about the condition of the recently reopened bridge. I want to assure the public the irregularities are not being caused by structural issues at all,” said Mr. Gabriel. He emphasized that the bridge remains safe, and the defects, which included signs of "shoving" on the pavement, were identified early and are being promptly addressed.
DPW has requested that motorists use alternate routes and adhere to detour signs while the work is in progress. Mr. Gabriel stressed that public safety remains the number one priority, and the department is working diligently to ensure the repairs are completed swiftly.
The repairs, which are expected to take between 48 to 72 hours, depending on weather conditions, will address concerns about the bridge's surface, including ensuring proper adherence of the asphalt to the deck. DPW and its partners at the Federal Highway Administration’s Eastern Federal Lands Highway Division have stated that they will provide updates to the community as the work progresses.
Motorists are reminded to exercise caution when driving over the bridge once it reopens, adhering to the posted speed limit of 20 mph.
