Overview
- State engineers briefed the MDTA board that federal safety guidance led to a larger cable‑stayed design, pushing the estimate above $4 billion and extending the schedule by roughly two years.
- The main span will reach 1,665 feet and the pylons will rise over 600 feet, which officials say will make it the longest cable‑stayed main span located entirely in the United States.
- Pier protection using rigid, football‑field‑sized fenders is planned to shield multiple supports and is expected to account for roughly one‑quarter of the total budget.
- Construction sequencing outlined by MDTA includes about one year for foundations and roughly two years to pour the mass‑concrete pylons, requiring cooling systems and large river cranes.
- Procurement steps call for firmer estimates through March, binding price proposals in early April, negotiations and approvals in May, and a target June contract, with an off‑ramp available if the state and Kiewit cannot agree on price.