Big Carlos Pass Bridge

Replacing a bridge over open water requires more than technical expertise. It demands careful planning, adaptability and a construction approach that minimizes risk while keeping work moving safely and efficiently.

Rather than relying on barges in the exposed waters of Big Carlos Pass, Superior designed and constructed a 1,500-foot temporary trestle system that provided stable access for crews and equipment throughout the project. The trestle reduced weather-related disruptions during hurricane season and created a reliable platform for deep foundation work, helping maintain productivity despite challenging site conditions.

Subsurface conditions presented another challenge. The caprock layer varied significantly across the project, requiring the team to continuously adjust drilling methods and equipment configurations as pile depths changed from location to location. By drawing on expertise from field crews and technical specialists, Superior adapted to changing conditions while keeping work progressing safely and efficiently.

Environmental stewardship remained a priority throughout construction. Because sea turtle nesting season overlapped with much of the construction calendar, nighttime concrete pours were completed using shielded amber lighting designed to protect nesting turtles and hatchlings on the adjacent beach. By incorporating these requirements into the project schedule from the onset, the team maintained both environmental compliance and production goals.

Superior also worked closely with Lee County and the design team to identify opportunities to improve constructability. One notable innovation eliminated a land-based cofferdam and allowed a pier cap to be placed in a single concrete pour instead of in two phases with post-tensioning. The revised approach simplified construction, reduced costs for the owner and shortened the schedule while maintaining the project’s quality standards.