GarverUSA.com:

Transportation Portfolio

Interstate 59
S-Curve Reconstruction

Client: Mississippi Department of Transportation
Location: Laurel, Mississippi
Project Cost: $26 million

Project
Originally constructed in 1961, the S-curve was engineered around a hospital and public housing project. However, the three-quarter-mile stretch of interstate required motorists to slow to 40 mph, and soon that portion of I-59 had reaped a history of tragic accidents, traffic jams, and even fatalities.

Garver studied two alternative routes and designed a project that reconstructed I-59 along a new alignment, crossing six streets and a railroad track. The project included a 1,980-foot, six-lane, elevated bridge structure that featured horizontal reverse curves with greater radii. In addition, 1,350 feet of elevated ramps connected to the bridge. Due to a significant spike in structural steel prices, Garver redesigned the structure using prestressed concrete. The design provided for continuous operation of four lanes throughout construction.

Services Provided
  • Roadway and bridge design
  • Comprehensive construction plans and phasing
  • Traffic signalization
  • Overhead and understructure lighting
  • Signage
Awards
  • ACEC of Mississippi Engineering Excellence Honor Award
  • America’s Transportation Award, People’s Choice Award (MDOT)
  • America’s Transportation Award, Under Budget Award (MDOT)
Contact
Steve Haynes
601-825-3633
SLHaynes@GarverUSA.com