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MLK Bridge Approach Complex Project Recognized with 2022 ACEC Illinois Engineering Excellence Awards

CHICAGO, IL | Modjeski and Masters, a nationwide leader in the design, inspection, and rehabilitation of all bridge types, including long-span and movable structures, today announced its selection for the 2022 Engineering Excellence Structural Systems Honor Award and Judge’s Choice Award from the American Council of Engineering Companies (ACEC) of Illinois. The firm was recognized with the awards for its Martin Luther King Bridge Approach Complex Project in East St. Louis, Illinois. 

The Martin Luther King Bridge stretches over the Mississippi River, connecting East St. Louis, Illinois with the downtown streets of St. Louis, Missouri. This project included the replacement of the original 1,300-foot east approach structure, built in the 1950s. Limited access and numerous obstacles both beneath and adjacent to the structure led the team to employ innovative, emerging technologies to limit the footprint of the replacement structure. M&M additionally expanded the scope of work at the request of the district to include expedited design for repairs to six other structures which were closed during construction, adding unexpected value to the project.

The Engineering Excellence Awards Competition recognizes projects of engineering achievement by Illinois consulting engineering firms. Entries are judged on the basis of engineering excellence, the degree to which the client’s needs are met, and the benefits to the public welfare and private practice of engineering. The awards were presented during an awards gala at the Hyatt Regency O’Hare in Chicago on Feb. 17, 2022.

“We are honored to be recognized for this project,” said Jerilyn Hassard, project manager and vice president of Modjeski and Masters. “The project was challenging on multiple levels and wouldn’t have been successful if not for the leadership of IDOT District 8 and the Bureau of Bridges and Structures, the tireless efforts of the design team which included members from EFK Moen, SCI, ABNA, and Added Dimension, and the construction expertise of Millstone Weber. The collaborative effort and effective partnering by everyone involved throughout design and construction led to a successful solution which will benefit the communities who depend on this bridge for years to come.”

For more information about Modjeski and Masters’ award-winning replacement of the MLK Bridge Approach Complex, visit https://www.modjeski.com/projects/girder/martin-luther-king-bridge-approach-replacement/

About Modjeski and Masters

Modjeski and Masters is one of the world’s leading bridge engineering firms, with a reputation for technical excellence and innovation that goes beyond current standards. Established more than 125 years ago, the firm is responsible for the design and maintenance of some of our nation’s most recognizable structures. Services include fixed and movable bridge design, inspection and rehabilitation, and all facets of life-cycle maintenance, research and code development. For more information, including in-depth videos of Modjeski and Masters at work, please visit www.modjeski.com.

The project was challenging on multiple levels and wouldn’t have been successful if not for the leadership of IDOT District 8 and the Bureau of Bridges and Structures, the tireless efforts of the design team which included members from EFK Moen, SCI, ABNA, and Added Dimension, and the construction expertise of Millstone Weber. The collaborative effort and effective partnering by everyone involved throughout design and construction led to a successful solution which will benefit the communities who depend on this bridge for years to come.

-Jerilyn Hassard, PE, SE