
Traffic approaching the new bridge will shift approximately 0.5 miles before the waterway in both directions. With the bridge open to vehicular traffic, motorists may experience periodic lane closures while crews complete the final punch list work. Demolition of the old structure will begin following the final traffic shift.
Visitors to the Houlihan Park Boat Ramp can still access the facility through the new entrance/exit, located about 0.1 miles west of the existing one. Similarly, the entrance/exit to the Savannah National Wildlife Refuge on Onslow Island will move further east, providing access between the island and the bridge. Like before, there will be no dedicated turn lane to access the Boat Ramp or Onslow Island. Drivers are advised to follow the posted 35 mph speed limit signs when approaching the bridge.
Construction commenced in the third quarter of 2022, with crews constructing the bridge’s substructure in the waterway. After just over 18 months, the new structure will open for public use. This new bridge replaces the James P. Houlihan Bridge, one of Georgia’s oldest bridges, originally built in 1954 and the state’s last operational swing span bridge, with a taller structure providing increased waterway clearance. The new bridge will also feature wider shoulders designed to accommodate modern passenger and commercial vehicles.
“This is a major milestone for a complex project supporting significant commercial vehicle traffic and many distribution centers in the area,”
said Georgia DOT Project Manager Trevor Brown.
“Local stakeholders and the community have been patiently working with us during the construction of the new bridge, and we’re excited to get motorists onto the new structure.”
This bridge replacement is combined with the replacement of the neighboring State Route 25 bridge over the Middle River. Construction workers are working on the bridge foundation and will place support beams for the new bridge in the upcoming months.
The overall project completion is scheduled for Q4 2025.
Motorists are advised to stay alert and follow posted speed limit signage in the construction zones and when traveling this new roadway.
Credit: Original article published here.