Tucked away in the lush, limestone-rich landscape of Jefferson County; where underground springs and sinkholes shape the terrain; the Aucilla River bridge replacement project is transforming a key transportation link near Lamont. Aged and no longer suited to modern demands, the original bridge is being replaced with a 176-foot flat slab beam structure supported by three spans of 36-inch diameter pipe piling. To maintain public access during construction, a temporary 180-foot Acrow bridge has been installed, ensuring uninterrupted travel across the river. The project's location is not only ecologically sensitive but also archaeologically significant, with the Aucilla River corridor containing prehistoric sites that offer rare glimpses into early human life and extinct megafauna. 

RJ Gorman Construction was the contractor selected to lead this complex effort, and their reputation speaks volumes. A second-generation, family-owned firm based in Panama City, RJ Gorman specializes in marine construction across residential, commercial, and government sectors. Their deep experience working in Florida's waterways, many of which are environmentally protected or historically rich, made them the ideal choice for a project requiring both technical precision and cultural sensitivity. Their commitment to minimizing ground disturbance and protecting fragile ecosystems aligns with the stewardship goals of agencies like the Florida Department of Environmental Protection and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission: who are both overseeing portions of this upgrade. 

To execute the foundation work, RJ Gorman deployed an ICE® I-30v2 Diesel Impact Hammer and an ICE® 75AT Auger. These tools were chosen for their reliability and performance in the challenging riverbed conditions. Currently, the I-30v2 diesel hammer is driving the 36-inch pipe piles that will anchor the new bridge, while the 75AT auger, powered through heavy-duty Hydrauli-Flex™ hoses, is pre-drilling through the complex subsurface layers typical of delicate limestone topography. Working in tandem, the diesel hammer delivers the driving force while the auger prepares the ground, creating an efficient, low-impact installation process that is critical in a region where both environmental integrity and archaeological preservation are paramount. 

As the new bridge begins to take shape, the impact of RJ Gorman's work is already being felt. Locals and travelers alike will benefit from the continued access, while the broader community gains a safer, more resilient crossing over one of Florida's most unique rivers. International Construction Equipment is proud to support contractors like RJ Gorman Construction, whose expertise and respect for the land ensure that progress never comes at the expense of preservation. This project is more than a bridge, it's a testament to thoughtful engineering, environmental stewardship, and the enduring value of local craftsmanship. Kudos to the entire RJ Gorman team for bridging history and progress, your expertise and care are building more than infrastructure, you're building legacy! 

Learn more about the ICE® I-30v2 and ICE® 75AT Auger

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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