Bids are scheduled to open in October for a couple of major projects in Lake County... Indiana Department of Transportation Spokesman Jim Pinkerton say that includes replacement of the historic Nine-Span Bridge along Indianapolis Boulevard in Hammond. He says major construction for that project will take place throughout the year 2013, though some demolition work may occur over the winter.  Underneath the old Nine-Span is big new economic development, as international fertilizer giant Potash Corporation of Canada is building a facility in the vicinity. Pinkerton also said INDOT plans to save part of the Nine-Span and possibly incorporate it into a trail bridge.  The Nine-Span over the Gibson Rail Yard connects Hammond to East Chicago.   When it opened to traffic in 1937, it was said to be the longest bridge of its type over dry land in the world, according to some Hammond history at www.hammondindiana.com .

Another big October bid opening is for repaving a stretch of US 30 in the Hobart/Merrillville area, between State Roads 51 and 55. Pinkerton says that'll probably start Spring 2013, with as much work as possible taking place during the overnight hours along that busy retail corridor.

###