How was the original Wakota Bridge removed?
Removal of the old bridge started in September 2006 and was completed in the summer 2007. The initial removal work involved removal of the barriers and the bridge deck. The deck was removed by sawing it into haulable squares and taking them off one at a time. After the deck and steel beams were removed, the supports and foundations were broken up and removed. The main tied arch span was over the river navigation channel. This span was removed while the navigation channel was closed for the winter (approximately. 12/1/06 – 2/28/07). The arch span was temporarily supported from below and dismantled in place.