Falls Flyover Project

Concept

The Falls Flyover project consists of building four elevated ramps to connect US 82/Kell Freeway directly with US 287/281. The columns will lift motorists up to 80 feet in the air with the tallest ramp connecting eastbound US 82/277 to northbound US 287. The column design is the same as what was used on the Elevated Freeway (US 287/281) in Wichita Falls.

Funding

Considered the most crucial piece of highway connectivity in the region, the Falls Flyover was approved for construction in the summer of 2005. The Texas Transportation Commission allocated $32.2 million for the Falls Flyover. Groundbreaking was in November 2005 and the road was opened November 13, 2007.

Unfinished Work

A design flaw has prevented one ramp from being completed. The North to West interchange had to have 300 feet of decking removed due to poor ride quality and the super elevation needed to provide banking in the turn wasn’t accomplished. However, the sub and superstructures were safe and strong. An improved design was developed for a new deck and construction is anticipated to start in early 2009.

Facts and Figures:

Contractor: Zachry Construction
Contract Amount: $32.2 Million
Ramps: Four elevated ramps to connect US 82/277 in Wichita Falls to US 287/281.