Timelapse Shows Construction of FIU Bridge That Later Collapsed

Florida International University touted its new pedestrian bridge on March 10, just five days before the structure collapsed, trapping several cars and leaving an unconfirmed number of people injured.“The main span of the FIU-Sweetwater UniversityCity Bridge was lifted from its temporary supports, rotated 90 degrees across an eight-lane thoroughfare, and lowered into its permanent position,” the March 10 press release said.Miami-Dade Fire Rescue said multiple people were injured when the bridge collapsed. Officials had not said how many people were injured.“FIU is about building bridges and student safety. This project accomplishes our mission beautifully,” FIU President Mark B. Rosenberg said in the press release. “We are filled with pride and satisfaction at seeing this engineering feat come to life and connect our campus to the surrounding community where thousands of our students live.”The press release also said workers used the Accelerated Bridge Construction methods on the 174-foot, 950-ton section of the bridge, which was built adjacent to the street before being installed into place over the road. The university has an Accelerated Bridge Construction University Transportation Center, which works on the methods used on the bridge, the press release said. “This method of construction reduces potential risks to workers, commuters and pedestrians and minimizes traffic interruptions.”This video, a timelapse of the construction, was posted with the press release on Twitter. Credit: Florida International University via Storyful