LOWNDES COUNTY, MS
Heavy load ahead: Neel-Schaffer performs load improvement study for MDOT
Neel-Schaffer was selected by the Mississippi Department of Transportation to conduct a study to examine segments of roadway in Lowndes County in order to determine the needed improvements for the road and bridges to carry a maximum 96,000-pound loading.
MDOT commissioned the study in response to anticipated heavy truck loads between the Lowndes County Port and the Severstall Facility. MDOT was asked to consider increased loadings on five selected routes in Lowndes County:
- Industrial Park Road from the Severstal Entrance to Artesia Road
- Artesia Road from Industrial Park Road to US 45
- US 45 from Artesia Road to SR 182
- SR 182 from US 45 to the end of the Route near the Tennessee Tombigbee River
- Old Macon Road from SR 182 to the entrance to the Port
The study resulted in recommendations on improving/replacing the pavement structure in order to carry the identified loading. Construction cost estimates will be developed for each roadway segment. Structures including bridges and box culverts were analyzed for any needed improvements. A report will be produced that summarizes the findings.
Neel-Schaffer performed a geotechnical investigation of the existing pavements and the soil conditions below the pavements.
Neel-Schaffer developed a construction cost estimate for all recommended improvements to the roadway and structures and estimated conceptual quantities, utilizing MDOT’s current cost estimating process to prepare an initial cost estimate for all recommended improvements.
