The Franklinville Road Bridge replacement over Franklinville Creek is located in unincorporated McHenry County and, at first glance, may appear to be a simple bridge replacement. However, through diligent planning, public involvement, project staging and environmental considerations, WBK Engineering worked with McHenry County Division of Transportation (DOT) to develop a progressive solution that exceeded the standard of care and enhanced local habitat. 

• • Working with IDNR/OWR Permitting Agency to relocate the existing channel to its natural alignment
  • Hydraulic modeling eliminated the “choke” point of the existing bridge and lowered the flood elevations
  • Coordinated with important stakeholders early and often, leading to a design that minimizes impacts and preserves the environmental integrity of corridor
  • It was determined early in planning that the roadway profile could not be raised without dramatically impacting surrounding properties. WBK selected the bridge type, opening, and location that maintained the existing profile
  • WBK coordinated with McHenry County Conservation District to preserve existing land use 
  • Two Year construction staging to establish channel in advance of relocating it 
  • Construction staging of bridge allowed roadway to be open during winter between Years 1 and 2 of construction 
  • Five year maintenance and monitoring program to establish wetland/native vegetation along channel corridor
  • ROW negotiations were completed locally to expedite engineering and project delivery

Awards

2017 APWA Awards – Fox Valley Branch Public Works Project of the Year – Transportation – Less than $5 Million
2017 APWA Awards – Chicago Metro Chapter Public Works Project of the Year – Transportation – Less than $5 Million