Thermopolis Broadway Bridge receives massive 300-yard single concrete pour

The Broadway Bridge spanning the Bighorn River at Thermopolis, Wyoming, has been closed since July as it undergoes full structural rehabilitation. On Thursday, as part of the upgrade, crews executed a massive single concrete pour of 300 cubic yards to completely cover the bridge deck.

The concrete was placed in one continuous operation, a choice aimed at preserving structural integrity by avoiding cold joints or segregation. According to project and state transportation officials, the bridge had been in need of a full deck replacement given that prior concrete on the deck exhibited holes, spalling, and deterioration. They affirmed that while the upper concrete layer required replacement, the underlying steel structure and subcomponents were still sound.

The work on Broadway Bridge is part of a $2.19 million contract awarded to S&S Builders of Gillette, under direction from the Wyoming Department of Transportation (WYDOT). The scope of work includes removing the existing deck, substructure repair, painting, replacement of approach slabs, sidewalk repair, rail replacement, and paving on the approaches.

The 300-yard pour was critical to the project timeline, and involved extensive logistical coordination, since each concrete truck carries about 8 to 10 cubic yards. Executing a single continuous pour required thirty or more truckloads, staging, and two concrete pump systems (one on each side of the bridge). Trucks were constantly cycled to maintain fresh mix delivery.

To ensure uniform quality, every truckload underwent core sampling at the yard before being permitted to enter the pour sequence. The tests verify the consistency, mixture proportions, and adherence to specifications set by WYDOT for long-term durability.

Post-pour, additional tasks remain. These include installing guardrails, completing the bridge approaches, paving, and finishing sidewalks. WYDOT spokespersons say the project is still on track to reopen by mid- to late October, weather permitting.