Louisiana's transportation system, like every roadway in the USA, is the backbone of the state's economy. Maintaining aging bridges has become more difficult for all State DOTs (Department of Transportation) with the increase in personal vehicles. Built in 1960, the swing bridge over Amite River in French Settlement, LA has seen its fair share of motorists. In fact, it is no longer considered structurally capable of supporting its average daily traffic of 5,600 motorists that depend on LA-16 as the most direct route to schools, homes, churches, and work. If the bridge is not in operation, it would force motorists, buses, and trucks to find alternate routes, adding additional traffic to the residential areas and reducing maneuverability within the city and slowing down all commerce from commercial food deliveries to children attending school. Reconstructing this bridge to meet acceptable safety standards has been met with a high priority for the city, state, and locals, alike. 

An ICE® I-125V2 Diesel Hammer was chosen to install the foundation for the permanent bridge across the river. Thanks to the ICE® I-125's maintenance friendly framework and consistent blow count, it made easy work of the 30" (inches) concrete piles, installing these approximately 70' (ft) below the surface for the bridge's abutments, and 36" (inch) concrete piles for the piers. Simultaneously, the Hydrauli-Flex hoses ensured smooth hydraulic efficiency, allowing the ICE® I-125V2 Diesel Hammer to deliver consistent power for precise pile installation in demanding conditions. During this project, the construction team also installed the template pile utilizing the versatile ICE® Model 14D Vibratory Hammer.    

ICE® values the mission of this project to preserve Louisiana's commerce while enabling better personal mobility. #GoNOLA #BuildThisBridge 

Learn more about the ICE® I-125V2 and ICE® 14D. 

Media Contact-       
Pollyanna Cunningham, MA, MBA       
Vice President 
ICE® - International Construction Equipment, Inc    
The Hose Company   
Office - 704-821-8200       
Email - marketing@iceusa.com  / info@hydraulichose.com