History was made in Lake Havasu City Tuesday with a groundbreaking ceremony for the Freedom Bridge, which will provide a second connection between the Island and the mainland. The project, discussed and planned for decades, is now set to become a reality.
Mayor Cal Sheehy addressed the crowd gathered, calling it an "historic day" for Lake Havasu City. He noted the event mirrored the dedication of the London Bridge 55 years prior, where the city also celebrated the building of a bridge. Mayor Sheehy stated that each generation has an obligation to build upon what came before, and the Freedom Bridge will be a lasting way to honor those who have served the country while serving the community far into the future. He contrasted the London Bridge, which he said tells the story of the city's past, with the Freedom Bridge, which he said tells the story of its future direction.
Congressman Paul Gosar, also present at the groundbreaking, emphasized that the project goes beyond simply constructing a bridge. He explained its importance in saving lives, protecting families, and making Lake Havasu safer. Congressman Gosar highlighted the critical issue of the London Bridge being the Island's sole connection, noting the inadequacy of having only one way in and out during an emergency.
Scott Jones of Ames Construction, the company tasked with building the bridge, provided a synopsis of the work and project schedule. He indicated an 18-month construction timeline, noting that Ames Construction has built over 250 bridges in Arizona. Jones projected that the town would see the biggest cranes it has ever seen, with the first girders expected to arrive by June.
Jason Hart offered specific details on the bridge and its associated infrastructure. The Freedom Avenue, which leads to the bridge, will be 48 feet wide, featuring two 12-foot lanes on each side. The length of Freedom Avenue from the bridge to McCulloch is approximately 1/4 mile, and from the mainland side to the bridge is 0.36 miles. The bridge itself will be approximately 449 feet long, spanning a fifth of a mile, and will be 42 feet wide, with two 12-foot lanes. It will also include a 10.5-foot wide multi-use path, complete with concrete railing and guardrail. The bridge's steel girders will be 90 inches tall, approximately 7.6 feet. The abutment caps supporting the bridge will be 12 feet wide, 60 feet long, and four feet deep. Hart also detailed the multi-use path's connectivity, explaining it will link where the existing channel path ends, run underneath the bridge, go up along the western/State Park side, and cross over the bridge.
Numerous dignitaries and elected officials attended the ceremony, including State Representative Leo Biasiucci, Mohave County Supervisor Sonny Borelli, Lake Havasu Public Works Director Ron Foggin, and Engineer of Record Jon Rowland. Members of the Lake Havasu City Council were also present.
Mayor Sheehy concluded his remarks by reaffirming Lake Havasu City as a community that demonstrates a willingness to think big, plan for the future, and turn ambitious ideas into reality. He envisioned a future where people will drive across the Freedom Bridge without realizing the extensive meetings, studies, and work that went into its creation.
