The existing bridge, built in 1954, is structurally and seismically deficient due to several issues, including:

• Deterioration and corrosion of the steel pile shells.
• Visible severe cracking along the wall face and wall leaning.

Replacing the bridge will ensure a safe and reliable route for residents and other users of the roadway. 

Spanning over Borel Creek, the Bermuda Bridge serves as a vital link between Fiesta Drive and Annapolis Drive, as it is the only vehicular access to the adjacent housing development. Constructed in 1954, the bridge has a length of approximately 54 feet and a width of 60 feet. It features a five-span cast-in-place reinforced concrete slab design, supported by 15-inch diameter concrete-filled steel shell pile extending into the creek bed below.

In 2009, a Caltrans bridge inspection report revealed several deficiencies, such as the corrosion of steel pile shells, cracking of the deck slab, and significant cracking and deterioration of the masonry walls. Seismic analysis also indicated that the pile extensions are vulnerable to failure in the event of a significant earthquake, potentially leading to a collapse.

To address these concerns and ensure the safety and reliability of the bridge, the City of San Mateo has initiated a project that includes a full replacement of the bridge. The new bridge will feature a two-span cast-in-place reinforced concrete slab design with improved structural integrity and safety features. This project is a testament to the City's commitment to maintaining and improving its infrastructure for the benefit of the community.

The Bermuda Drive Bridge Replacement Project offers several key benefits to the residents and the community, including:

1. Improved safety: Replacing the existing bridge will address its structural deficiencies and seismic vulnerabilities, ensuring that it remains safe and operational during significant earthquakes or other natural events.
2. Improved durability: Modern materials and construction methods used for the replacement bridge will help it better withstand harsh environmental conditions, reducing the risk of future deterioration and corrosion.
3. Improved performance: The revamped bridge will feature contemporary design standards, providing better support for vehicular and pedestrian traffic, and ensuring long-lasting service to the community.

Overall, this project will deliver benefits to residents and the broader community for many generations to come.

The Bermuda Drive Bridge Replacement Project timeline has been designed to minimize disruptions while ensuring the safety of residents. A detailed timeline suitable for impacted residents is outlined below:

1. Design Completion (December 2023): During this 7-month period, the project team will complete data collection, utility coordination, environmental permits, and the final bridge replacement design.
2. Utilities Relocation/Undergrounding (Summer 2024): PG&E will perform construction work to relocate utilities to prepare for the bridge replacement.
3. Bridge Construction:
   • Phase 1 (April 2026 - October 2026): The west side of the bridge will be replaced during this 6-month period. Residents should expect potential traffic congestion around the construction zone, one-way traffic controlled by temporary traffic signals, and the first season of pile driving. Both vehicular and pedestrian access will be maintained throughout this phase.
   • Phase 2 (April 2027 - July 2028): The east side of the bridge will be replaced during this 16-month period. Two-way traffic will be restored on the west side of the bridge and the second season of pile driving will take place. Both vehicular and pedestrian access will be maintained throughout this phase.
4. Project Close-out: After the completion of construction in July 2028, the project team will finalize any remaining tasks, such as addressing punch list items, final inspections, and documentation.

Please note that the timeline may vary due to permitting, design, and construction schedules. The project team will keep the community informed about the progress and any necessary changes to the construction plan.

Two-phase construction was chosen to maintain pedestrian and vehicular access at the existing bridge during the entire construction process. Single-phase construction would require a temporary pedestrian bridge or temporary access points through the soundwall along Saratoga Drive, which could cause more traffic disruptions and diverted traffic. 

The project team will strive to minimize disruptions to residents during construction. However, there may be temporary traffic congestion, noise from pile installation, and changes to access routes. The team will keep residents informed about any necessary adjustments.

The Bermuda Drive Bridge Replacement Project is committed to minimizing its environmental impact during construction and beyond. The project team is working closely with environmental agencies to obtain necessary permits and follow best practices to protect natural resources and habitats in the area. Some of the environmental considerations include:

1. Erosion and sediment control: Measures will be implemented during construction to prevent soil erosion and protect nearby waterways from sediment runoff.
2. Wildlife protection: The project team will take precautions to minimize disturbance to local wildlife and their habitats during construction.
3. Water quality protection: The new bridge design will incorporate stormwater management features to protect water quality in the surrounding waterways.
4. Noise and air quality: Construction activities will follow local regulations to minimize noise pollution and air quality impacts on the surrounding community.

The project team will continue to monitor and address any environmental concerns throughout the construction process to ensure the long-term sustainability and ecological health of the area.

Residents are encouraged to attend public meetings, where they can ask questions and provide feedback directly to the project team. Alternatively, residents can contact the project team at (650) 522-7300. The City values your input and is dedicated to addressing residents' concerns throughout the project's development and construction.