Old Wards Ferry Replacement Project

Tuolumne County, in cooperation with Caltrans, is initiating the Old Wards Ferry Replacement Project to replace the existing Old Wards Ferry Bridge (Bridge No. 32C0017) crossing Curtis Creek in Sonora, California. Located 0.25 mile west of the Tinnin Road and Old Wards Ferry Road intersection, the project aims to improve corridor safety by constructing a new 61-foot long and 26-foot wide single-span bridge. The structure will feature a cast-in-place prestressed concrete slab superstructure supported by seat type abutments on cast-in-drilled-hole concrete piles. To minimize approach roadway work, the bridge will follow the existing horizontal alignment with a slightly lowered profile grade, and design specifications ensure that no new footings are placed directly within Curtis Creek. The project is classified as a forecast under NAICS code 237310 and has been granted a Categorical Exemption under 15302. Construction must adhere to strict environmental and regulatory standards, including the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, the prevention of invasive species spread, and the protection of US and State waters. Additionally, the contractor is required to protect any unanticipated cultural resources discovered on-site. Primary contact for the project is Denise Zitnik, Engineer III for Tuolumne County.