Texas DOT is seeking design-build-maintain proposals from seven shortlisted teams for a lump-sum contract to replace the Harbor Bridge carrying U.S. 181 over the Corpus Christi ship channel. Proposals are due early in 2015 and a commercial close is set for mid-summer.

Bids will include five, five-year options for capital and routine maintenance, repair,  upkeep and renovation of an “iconic” new bridge with a 75-year design life. The existing steel arch bridge is a mile long and was completed in 1959. It carries about 26,000 vpd.