Revitalizing Keene’s Island Street Bridge: The Role of Hydrauli-Flex Hoses in a Critical Infrastructure Project
The Island Street Bridge in Keene, NH, has a rich history, and it’s about to start a new chapter in its long lifespan. Originally a temporary fix after the original bridge collapsed in 1977, the Bailey Bridge had a surprising longevity, lasting more than 40 years until it was deemed too degraded for continued use. The city’s decision to rebuild this vital transportation link comes with many challenges—tight working conditions, sensitive surrounding infrastructure, and the need for the latest equipment.
This is where the expertise of ED Swett Inc., a trusted subcontractor for BUR Construction, and the reliable machinery provided by International Construction Equipment (ICE®) came into play. ED Swett has been a cornerstone of New Hampshire, Vermont, and Massachusetts’ infrastructure projects for nearly a century. They bring both the experience and equipment necessary to handle even the toughest jobs, and the Island Street Bridge reconstruction was no exception.
The Challenge: Tight Spaces and Delicate Work
In July 2023, the team at ED Swett began dismantling the aging Bailey Bridge over the Ashuelot River. However, working in tight spaces presented significant challenges. The area surrounding the bridge had limited space for crane operations due to nearby overhead power lines, historic structures, and the river. The project required precise control over equipment to avoid shaking nearby structures—especially a house situated just 5½ feet from the work zone.
To maintain a gentle touch while still achieving the necessary results, ED Swett called upon ICE®’s specialized machinery. The solution? The ICE® IP-3 Hydraulic Hammer with a sheeting pants attachment. This innovative tool provided the precision needed for placing the retaining wall without disturbing the surrounding area. The lightweight, compact design allowed for smooth operation despite the space restrictions.
The Vital Role of Hydrauli-Flex Hoses
For the ICE® equipment to work effectively, reliable hydraulic power is essential. Hydraulic hoses are the lifeblood of construction machinery like the ICE® IP-3 Hammer and the ICE® I-19V2 Diesel Impact Hammer. These hoses are responsible for maintaining consistent hydraulic pressure, which directly affects the equipment’s performance. Without them, the heavy-duty machines that drive piles, place sheeting, or dig into the earth simply couldn’t function.
At The Hose Company, we understand the crucial role our Hydrauli-Flex hoses play in these high-pressure environments. Designed specifically for use in demanding construction projects like the Island Street Bridge reconstruction, Hydrauli-Flex hoses are engineered to meet the rigorous demands of hydraulic machinery. By providing consistent and reliable pressure, these hoses ensure that the ICE® equipment continues to deliver optimal performance, whether it’s driving piles into bedrock or carefully placing structural components.
An Expert Team and State-of-the-Art Equipment
Once the sheeting wall was in place, ED Swett used their ICE® I-19V2 Diesel Impact Hammer to drive 95-foot-long H-piles into bedrock, solidifying the new bridge abutments. The hammer’s power and precision allowed for the installation of these essential supports without causing disturbances in the surrounding area. The team’s meticulous work, combined with ICE® machinery, played a significant role in ensuring the success of this challenging project.
ED Swett is also utilizing a vibratory hammer to remove any necessary sheets and finish restoring the area to grade. As the project progresses, the City of Keene is on track to complete the Island Street Bridge reconstruction by December 2023. The completed bridge will serve as a vital connection for vehicles, bicycles, and pedestrians, aligning with the city’s Complete Streets Policy.
Looking Ahead
The collaboration between ED Swett Inc., ICE®, and The Hose Company exemplifies the power of teamwork and top-tier equipment in delivering complex infrastructure projects. This project not only highlights the importance of reliable machinery but also showcases the role of high-quality hydraulic hoses like Hydrauli-Flex in ensuring the performance of the equipment that keeps our infrastructure running smoothly.
As the Island Street Bridge project moves toward completion, we at The Hose Company look forward to continuing our work with ICE® to provide the equipment and hoses necessary to complete future projects. We take pride in being part of a team that helps communities like Keene maintain and improve their infrastructure, keeping residents and businesses connected for generations to come.
Contact Us
For more information on our Hydrauli-Flex hoses or to discuss how we can support your next project, don’t hesitate to reach out. Our team is ready to assist with all your hydraulic needs.
