[bad-handle]

I think removing it would be a terrible idea, for the alignment reasons and the traffic flow, it seems nonsensical. But isn't it already 60 years old or so, what is the lifespan of a structure like that?

 

[KJBrissy]

I'd be a fan of removing it, but it must be done as part of a significant strategic traffic plan. It can't be done in isolation.

 

[nathandavid88]

I think removing it would be a terrible idea, for the alignment reasons and the traffic flow, it seems nonsensical. But isn't it already 60 years old or so, what is the lifespan of a structure like that?

It's about 50 years old I think. According to this document from DTMR (PDF), bridges now are designed for a nominal design life of 100 years. Assuming that the design life was broadly true in the 1970s (say 70-100 years), I would estimate that it will be good for another 30-50 years at least before either major reconstruction or replacement works are required.

However, removing it could affect other infrastructure (specifically the busway) that will still be well within its design life at that point. That could be the sticking point.

 

[EnolaGray]

Cost to remove it and realign the streets is worth more then the potential benefits at the moment IMO. Maybe in another 5-10 years it might be a different story. But right now it’s money which could be better spent elsewhere for greater return.

 

[bribri]

Some detail of the lower floor shape.

 

[nathandavid88]

I've been sitting on these a couple of weeks now, trying to find time to process them properly (it's been a busy few weeks) and failing. Here are some straight-from-camera pics from January 12th: