The $150M project was the largest highway contract as well as the first noise barrier project in Delaware history. It was critical that this project be executed to perfection. The Construction Manager/General Contractor (CM/GC) method was used, whereby the contractor acts as the consultant during the design process and can offer constructability and pricing feedback on design options and can identify risks based on the contractor’s established means and methods. This process allowed Durisol to be involved much earlier and more intimately in the pre-bid design process and spec writing.

Durisol worked with both the engineer Whitman Requardt & Associates, and contractor, Kiewit, in the design phase proposing various options of different transparent barriers to replace the 40-year-old dilapidated metal panels that were currently in place. Through many iterative bidding rounds with the engineer and contractor, Durisol worked together with all parties to refine the specifications. The DelDOT ultimately moved forward with our Standard Transparent System.

The expansive project at roughly 16,000 square feet, required lightweight panels with higher levels of safety than the previous wall. Durisol designed and supplied transparent fragment retention panels in ready-fit frames, which were structure mounted (onto the bridge) with steel posts and safety cables.

Durisol’s Project Manager, Nate Binette said “keeping light transmission through the walls was an important aspect to the Delaware DOT, as well as creating a cool aesthetic.” Design being a key factor in the project, blue-tinted acrylic panels were used along with custom “W” etchings with support from the City of Wilmington and local community, the custom “W” proved to be a standout icon along the Viaduct.

Now complete, the wall provides noise control to the neighboring residents and a safety barrier between motorists and pedestrians below.