The I-70 Rocheport Bridge Replacement: A Monumental Project for Missouri’s Future
At The Hose Company, the Hydrauli-Flex Hoses we produce often set and exceed the standard for many equipment manufacturers, which power many of the most innovative and high-performing hydraulic systems in the industry. One such system is used by ICE® Hydraulic Equipment, which is played a key role in the construction of the new I-70 Rocheport Bridge. As an integral part of this monumental project, we want to highlight how this bridge replacement is a game-changer for Missouri’s infrastructure, and how we at The Hose Company are contributing to the success of the project.
The I-70 Rocheport Bridge, a vital transportation link across the Missouri River, has served as a critical connector for freight and commuters since its completion in 1960. With its location along Interstate 70, it plays a central role in moving goods across the United States. As the Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) states, I-70 is "at the heart of Missouri’s freight transportation system," and the Rocheport Bridge is one of the key arteries ensuring the flow of over $100 billion in freight annually. But after more than six decades of service, the bridge is showing signs of age, and a $240 million replacement is underway.
The new bridge will consist of two separate structures, each with three lanes of traffic, designed to safely accommodate more than 12 million vehicles annually. The need for this replacement stems from the current bridge's deteriorating condition, which is expected to lead to weight restrictions in the coming years. Given the importance of this crossing, both for local commuters and for freight transportation, the new bridge is crucial for ensuring continued safe and efficient travel across the Missouri River.
Partnering with Lunda to Build the Future
Lunda Construction, the contractor awarded the contract to replace the I-70 Rocheport Bridge, turned to ICE® to supply the necessary tools and expertise for this massive undertaking. As the team at Lunda knows all too well, a project of this scale requires specialized equipment and hydraulic systems capable of handling the unique challenges of driving large diameter caisson piles into the Missouri Riverbed. That’s where we come in.
At The Hose Company, we are honored that Lunda selected ICE® Hydraulic Equipment for this important project. To support the installation of the bridge's foundations, the ICE® 110 Vibratory Pile Driver/Extractor, equipped with a specialized quad beam that allows for the use of four large caisson clamps to secure and lift the massive, heavy pipe piles. This additional clamping force made the pile-driving process faster and easier, ensuring that each pile was placed efficiently and with precision. Powered by Hydrauli-Flex Hoses, this unit is a monster in the field!
For different soil conditions, Lunda's team also required a more versatile solution, which is where the ICE® 50B Vibratory Pile Driver/Extractor came into play. This smaller, yet equally powerful piece of equipment proved essential for installing smaller diameter caissons and sheet piles in certain areas of the project. The ICE® 50B provided the necessary flexibility to adapt to varying conditions, and we’re grateful to Lunda for trusting ICE with their equipment needs.
Building for the Next 100 Years
The new I-70 Rocheport Bridges are expected to last for at least 100 years, ensuring that future generations will have the infrastructure necessary to keep freight moving and drivers safe. We at The Hose Company are proud to be part of this incredible project, providing the support and hydraulic systems that are helping make it a reality. This project is not just about replacing a bridge—it’s about securing the future of Missouri’s freight corridor and ensuring the continued economic growth of our nation.
As we continue to support projects like these with high-quality hydraulic solutions, The Hose Company remains committed to advancing infrastructure projects across the country. We’re proud to be a part of this historic bridge replacement and the ongoing growth of our nation’s critical transportation networks.
To learn more about the I-70 Rocheport Bridge replacement and its importance to Missouri’s freight system, visit MoDOT's website.
Partner with The Hose Company for Your Hydraulic Hose Needs
At The Hose Company, we understand that every project is unique and requires the right solutions to ensure success. Whether you’re working on a large-scale infrastructure project like the I-70 Rocheport Bridge replacement or a more specialized endeavor, we’re here to provide you with the high-performance hoses and hydraulic systems you need.
Our Hydrauli-Flex brand of hoses, combined with our expert team at The Hose Company, offers unparalleled reliability and quality for all types of hydraulic applications. If you’re ready to take your project to the next level with the best in the industry, we have a professional on hand to discuss your specific hose requirements and provide tailored solutions to meet your needs.
Contact us today to explore how we can support your next project, and let’s work together to drive success with the right hydraulic hose solutions. Our team is always ready to partner with you to ensure your equipment runs efficiently, safely, and effectively.
Reach out to us via our contact page to get started. We look forward to collaborating with you!