Construction of new FIU pedestrian bridge will begin in October
MIAMI - The Florida Department of Transportation will begin construction of a new pedestrian bridge on 8th Street pedestrian bridge at Southwest 109th Avenue.
In 2018, six people were killed and 10 others injured when a previous pedestrian bridge, which was under construction, collapsed.
"I don't want another tragedy to occur here or anywhere else," said Orlando Duran, Alexa Duran's dad, one of six people who died on March 15, 2018.
"I am not against rebuilding or building a bridge provided there's security during and after construction, that's my only concern," added Duran.
Following a lengthy investigation, the National Transportation and Safety Board concluded the design firm underestimated the load of the bridge and overestimated its strength in a critical section that splintered.
The construction of the new bridge is set to begin Oct. 8, and it will last about two years. The design for the bridge has already been completed. There will be pedestrian plazas with elevators and stairs on either side of the bridge.
"As long as they provide the security measures to close the streets during construction, if they agree they will do and they have a plan for it, I am fine," said Duran, who said S.W. 8th Street was not closed when the bridge collapsed.
During construction, FDOT said temporary lane closures and roadway detours will occur during non-peak hours, and that access to adjacent neighborhoods and businesses will be maintained.
The current construction cost is $37.7 million.
Thursday's public meeting takes place at 6 p.m. at the Jorge Mas Canosa Youth Center, 250 SW 114 Avenue. Those who can't join in person can attend virtually.