Bruce Road Reconstruction Project

Project Name
Bruce Road Reconstruction Project
Owner
City of Chico
Designer
Paul Rabo, PE, Rolls Anderson Rolls
General Contractor
Knife River Construction
Concrete Contractor
Pavement Recycling Systems
Concrete Supplier
Pavement Recycling Systems
Completion Date
Fall 2024
 

Project Details
The Bruce Road Reconstruction Project in Chico, California, is a transformative infrastructure initiative aimed at accommodating the city’s rapid growth and addressing the needs of its expanding population. Spanning approximately 600,000 square feet of roadway pavement, the project includes the expansion of Bruce Road into a four-lane thoroughfare with additional turn lanes, shoulders, bike lanes and a dedicated path for active transportation. This major arterial street also serves as a critical evacuation route during emergencies. The project was executed by Knife River Construction as the general contractor, with Pavement Recycling Systems serving as the concrete contractor and supplier.

The project utilized over 16,000 cubic yards of Roller Compacted Concrete (RCC) for the pavement, a first for the City of Chico. RCC was chosen for its cost-effectiveness, durability and environmental benefits, including a longer lifespan and reduced maintenance needs. The paving was completed over 27 shifts, with the entire project spanning just over two years.

The decision to use RCC instead of traditional asphalt highlights the project’s commitment to sustainability. RCC offers significant environmental advantages, such as reduced carbon emissions and mitigation of the urban heat island effect. The concrete mix, developed with industry collaboration, achieved high density and early strength, allowing for quicker construction and public access. The material was produced in a mobile plant located just 0.5 miles from the project site, ensuring quality control and minimizing transportation emissions.

This innovative approach not only sets a precedent for future projects in Chico but also underscores the city’s dedication to building resilient and community-focused