Rehabilitation of the Westchester Avenue Bridge Over the Hutchinson River Parkway

Judlau Contracting, a division of OHLA USA, executed a multi-phase, $50 million project for the NYC Department of Transportation to raise the Westchester Avenue Bridge by 2.5 feet and replace key structural components. In addition to replacing the deteriorated structure, the upgrade aimed to prevent collisions from errant tractor-trailers on the Hutchinson River Parkway, which previously caused frequent accidents and traffic disruptions. 

Originally built in 1940, the bridge carries Westchester Avenue and the elevated NYC Transit #6 subway line over the parkway. Its former clearance of 10 feet, 2 inches fell short of the 12 feet, 6 inches minimum recommended by AASHTO standards. The reconstruction brought the bridge into compliance with national clearance requirements. 

Key scope elements included: 

• Replacement of steel girders, concrete deck, parapets, and bearings 

• Installation of a third water main and relocation of under-deck utilities 

• Reconstruction of approach roadways and drainage systems 

• Addition of pedestrian fencing, traffic signal upgrades, and a new turn lane 

• Construction of a new retaining wall south of the bridge 

• Reconstruction of approximately 1,600 feet of Westchester Avenue.   

A major challenge involved launching steel girders – as long as 160 feet – across the parkway using forklifts, rollers, and rigging equipment.  This activity required temporary but full closures of the parkway during nighttime and weekend hours and significant advanced planning with multiple agencies.  

To maintain subway service during demolition and replacement, a massive temporary support structure, known as a strongback system, was installed beneath the elevated tracks.