As part of a project to improve stormwater drainage and reduce the potential of flooding from future storms, the Taylor Bayou Bridge, just north of the community of Hamshire, Texas was slated for replacement.

Although initial plans called for a full closure of the structure during the project, the only available alternate routes around the rural site were 30 miles or more. Because the bridge, located on State Highway 124, is considered critical for commercial and noncommercial traffic including first responders, the decision was made to install a modular steel detour structure for the duration of the project to reduce impacts to the public.

The Acrow 700XS® panel bridge chosen for the project was rented to contractor Texas Materials Group, Inc. The two-lane bridge is 130 feet (39.62m) long, with a curb-to-curb width of 30 feet (9.15m) to carry a single lane each of north and south traffic. It was designed to AASHTO HL-93 loading, and the deck has an asphalt overlay in a crown to allow for a 2% cross-slope.

Construction of the temporary detour bridge began in August 2024, and despite a rather tight site, it was installed quickly and successfully with a crane-assisted launch, opening to traffic in mid-October. It will remain in service until the completion of the new permanent bridge.

Acrow’s versatile detour solutions are an excellent choice to consider over phased construction during bridge repair or rehabilitation projects. Suitable for a wide range of urban and rural applications, they are quickly and easily built and installed and offer a cost-effective way to increase safety while cutting project timelines.