Commuters living east of downtown Tampa gained a new commuter route into the city beginning in July of 2006, cutting their drive time by as much as 50%, while using the first completely electronic toll collection system in Florida.  On July 18, 2006 the elevated expansion of the Selmon Expressway opened to traffic.  The opening of the reversible three-lane structures provides commuters with a direct and quick commute into the city, while adding graceful and elegant structures to the skyline of Tampa.   The structures were designed to fit precisely within six feet of the existing median, saving the owner the expense of acquiring right-of-way. 

The 196 spans, typically 142’, were erected in the segmental span-by-span method.  Where access was challenging, precast concrete segments were delivered over the completed bridge to the erection site, then lowered into position from above.  The elevated system, with 5.13 miles of bridge structures, was designed to provide clean lines and soft hues in order to provide a pleasing experience for drivers utilizing the expressway lanes at grade.  The Authority’s emphasis on pleasing aesthetic resulted in no public opposition to this congestion relieving expansion.

A 1/2” of concrete was integrally cast with the top slab of the segments.  Upon the completion of erection, this top surface was milled to a smooth finish to provide superior ridability and low noise levels.  Bridge deck durability is further enhanced through bi-directional post-tensioning.