The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) took advantage of lower traffic volumes due to COVID-19 by moving up the $35.9 million replacement of the U.S. 101 bridge deck at San Francisco’s Alemany Circle; a vital project in a highly populated area to keep traffic moving in the future for the decades old bridge. In order to maintain the quality of life of the community, direct communication access to residents, businesses, travelling motorists, public officials and representatives was essential. Caltrans made twice daily updates on “Twitter Live,” which meant news vans, reporters, and crews needed not be present on site. The Caltrans also stocked its “Media Bar” website with time-lapse videos, live project camera feeds, and photos so news stations could produce their stories from a distance. Due to COVID-19, nearby residents were homebound during construction and subjected to noise and pollution disruption. Thus, the Caltrans public information office team made it their top priority to keep residents informed of the measures taken by the agency to reduce the effects of construction. True to their commitment to provide a safe and sustainable transportation system, Caltrans completed this bridge replacement nine days ahead of schedule, all while minimizing inconveniences to drivers and providing a newer, safer bridge structure.
America's Transportation Awards 