The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) has provided a detailed summary of the ongoing repairs to the FM 787 bridge at the Trinity River, highlighting progress made throughout December. The bridge has been closed since May 7, 2024, after severe flooding caused washouts on the eastern and western approaches.
In late November, just before Thanksgiving, Ragle Construction achieved a major milestone by setting the bridge beams for the new spans on the east side of FM 787. This advancement paved the way for the next phase of construction.
Throughout December, contractors have been working to place a concrete deck on the new bridge spans on the east side, signaling continued progress toward the bridge’s stabilization.
On the west side of the bridge, significant strides were also made. New bridge beams were installed, followed by the placement of deck panels and steel reinforcements, all in preparation for the concrete deck installation anticipated later this month. Earlier in December, crews completed the drill shafts and columns on the west side, marking another essential step in the project.
These efforts build on previous work completed in the fall. By September, crews had demolished and cleaned up the west side of the bridge and removed dirt on the east side to prepare for new sheet piling. The installation of sheet piling walls, which serve as crucial retaining structures, began in October and was nearly completed by mid-month. These walls provide stability by holding back water or other materials, ensuring the integrity of the bridge during reconstruction.
Despite steady progress, TxDOT has yet to provide a precise completion date for the FM 787 repairs.
Tanya Avila, spokesperson for TxDOT’s Beaumont District, reminded the public that the estimated timeline of four to six months, as shared during an October town hall meeting by District Engineer Martin Gonzalez, remains dependent on factors such as weather and material availability.
“Once we have a tentative completion date, it will be communicated to everyone through our monthly newsletter,” Avila stated.
More photos courtesy of Dr. Jimmy Smith of The Retreat at Artesian Lakes
