August 24, 2009

Indian River Inlet Bridge Construction Has Positive Economic Impact For Sussex County

Governor Markell and Federal Officials Discuss Job Creation and Benefits to Local Businesses

REHOBOTH BEACH -- Governor Jack Markell today joined Secretary of Transportation Carolann Wicks, U.S. Senator Thomas Carper, U.S. Senator Ted Kaufman, U.S. Representative Michael Castle, Federal Highway Administration Officials, Bridge Builders Skanska USA Civil Southeast, as well as business leaders in a press conference to highlight the creation of jobs and other economic benefits of the construction of the new Indian River Inlet Bridge.

Governor Markell stated, "The positive economic impact of the new Indian River Inlet Bridge construction is that it is creating jobs, bringing business to local companies, and is benefiting the local resort community, which ultimately affects the entire state." Governor Markell highlighted the fact that the bridge construction will bring 100-125 craft labor jobs to Delaware, and has already benefitted some local businesses such as Thoro-Good Concrete Company, who is supplying the concrete for the bridge via a $4 million contract.

Secretary of DelDOT Carolann Wicks highlighted the involvement of the federal delegation and the Federal Highway Administration, who earmarked $54 million in federal funds for this project. Their financial commitment and support have been critical to getting the $149 million-bridge funded.

Executive Directors from both the Rehoboth/Dewey and the Bethany/Fenwick Island Chambers of Commerce were on hand and noted that the local economy is benefiting from the bridge construction as well. "Skanska employees are frequenting restaurants, gas stations and retail shops in the area. They are renting or buying homes in seashore communities, and they are bringing their families and friends to vacation in the area, furthering the economic stability of the resort area," said Andrew Cripps, Executive Director of the Bethany/Fenwick Chamber of Commerce.

The beautiful and efficiently designed bridge will be 2,600 feet long, including 900 feet for the actual clear span over the inlet, with 1,700 feet of the bridge over land. It will be supported by piers in the ground, not in the water. The bridge will have a 100-year design life and will be built to withstand the extreme weather conditions of the area.

For further information on the bridge or to follow the construction, please visit www.irib.deldot.gov. or contact DelDOT's Office of Public Relations at 1-800-652-5600 or (302) 760-2080.