Woodrow Wilson Bridge Replacement

RK&K, in collaboration with a joint venture team, played a pivotal role as the General Engineering Consultant (GEC) for the Woodrow Wilson Bridge Replacement Project. Spanning the Potomac River between Maryland and Virginia, this transformative infrastructure initiative addressed one of the most congested bottlenecks along Interstate 95. The project replaced the aging six-lane bridge with two parallel spans totaling 12 lanes, supported by segmental concrete arches. It also included the reconstruction of four major interchanges and extensive highway widening to incorporate high-occupancy vehicle (HOV) lanes. Completed over a decade, the project required seamless coordination among multiple jurisdictions and stakeholders, including the Maryland State Highway Administration (MSHA), Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT), Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), and the District Department of Transportation (DDOT).

RK&K’s responsibilities encompassed all phases of design and construction management. During the design phase, RK&K coordinated with five section design consultants (SDCs) to establish design criteria, conduct independent technical reviews, and ensure compliance with environmental permits. A robust quality assurance/quality control (QA/QC) program was implemented, with milestone reviews ensuring timely resolutions to complex, multi-jurisdictional challenges. As the project transitioned into construction, RK&K provided oversight for the I-295 and MD 210 interchanges, managing $375 million across seven construction contracts.

RK&K established a dedicated district office to support construction management, complete with office space, a testing laboratory, and an on-site team of engineers, inspectors, and administrative staff. The team utilized advanced tools such as the Maryland Construction Management System (MCMS) for documentation and financial controls, ensuring meticulous tracking of quantities, schedules, and correspondence.

The project overcame significant engineering challenges, particularly the poor soil conditions along the Potomac River. RK&K leveraged advanced geotechnical solutions, including wick drains, lightweight fills, and deep soil-cement mixing. The twin bascule spans, a highlight of the bridge design, incorporated stainless steel reinforcement and were engineered to accommodate future rail transit.

Environmental stewardship was integral to the project. RK&K managed the dredging of over 350,000 cubic yards of material to create a construction access channel, while ensuring compliance with extensive environmental permits. The team developed innovative mitigation strategies, including the restoration of 52 acres of wetlands, creation of five artificial reefs, and implementation of a bubble-curtain system to protect fish populations during pile driving.

RK&K’s traffic engineering expertise ensured uninterrupted operations for nearly 200,000 daily motorists. A detailed maintenance of traffic (MOT) plan included temporary traffic controls, detours, and phased construction sequencing. During the opening of the first span in 2006, RK&K coordinated regional communications and signage to minimize disruption. Public outreach extended from Georgia to Connecticut, emphasizing the project’s impact on the broader transportation network.

Community involvement was a cornerstone of the project. RK&K facilitated public meetings, distributed informational mailers, and incorporated resident feedback into noise mitigation measures. Transparent sound walls and aesthetic treatments were implemented to balance functional needs with community preferences.

The Woodrow Wilson Bridge Replacement Project stands as a testament to RK&K’s ability to deliver large-scale infrastructure projects on time and within budget. The team’s meticulous planning and execution reduced the number of annual drawspan openings from 260 to just 15, significantly improving regional traffic flow. The project received accolades, including the American Society of Civil Engineers‘ OPAL Award and recognition from the American Council of Engineering Companies.

By integrating cutting-edge engineering, environmental sustainability, and stakeholder collaboration, RK&K has not only improved a critical transportation corridor but also set a new benchmark for mega-project delivery. The Woodrow Wilson Bridge now serves as a vital link for the region, supporting economic growth and enhancing the quality of life for millions of residents.