With experience as a city manager or assistant city manager in several South Florida communities, Robert “Bob” Baldwin is currently the city manager of Dania Beach. He is known for his ability to resolve fiscal and management challenges in a timely and efficient manner. One issue that Robert Baldwin tackled as assistant city manager of Fort Lauderdale centered on the Andrews Avenue Bridge, which experienced 19 shutdowns within a two-year period.
A particular issue was inefficiency. Every time the drawbridge went up, there was a gap of 30 seconds between the time it was lowered again and barriers were raised to allow cars to pass through. With Broward County highway engineers in agreement that 15 to 20 seconds could be shaved off that time, the proposed solution was a computerized box that could synchronize operations. Unfortunately, despite bridge repairs of $80,000, the county decided not to request the device, priced at around $20,000.
Mr. Baldwin persisted in efforts to resolve the issue, however, and invited the Broward deputy county administrator to visit and clock the bridge, so that county officials could give the matter some “serious thought.” The problem was described as being more serious than it sounded. With the drawbridge opening 14,000 times on an annual basis, the barrier lags represented nearly 60 hours of wasted time each year.
Attention was ultimately directed at the 40-year-old bridge. A major rehabilitation project is currently underway to increase storm resistance and make it quieter and more reliable. The project involves replacement of mechanical, hydraulic, electrical, and emergency response capacities. Drivers will face occasional restrictions during the project, due to be completed in 2020.
A particular issue was inefficiency. Every time the drawbridge went up, there was a gap of 30 seconds between the time it was lowered again and barriers were raised to allow cars to pass through. With Broward County highway engineers in agreement that 15 to 20 seconds could be shaved off that time, the proposed solution was a computerized box that could synchronize operations. Unfortunately, despite bridge repairs of $80,000, the county decided not to request the device, priced at around $20,000.
Mr. Baldwin persisted in efforts to resolve the issue, however, and invited the Broward deputy county administrator to visit and clock the bridge, so that county officials could give the matter some “serious thought.” The problem was described as being more serious than it sounded. With the drawbridge opening 14,000 times on an annual basis, the barrier lags represented nearly 60 hours of wasted time each year.
Attention was ultimately directed at the 40-year-old bridge. A major rehabilitation project is currently underway to increase storm resistance and make it quieter and more reliable. The project involves replacement of mechanical, hydraulic, electrical, and emergency response capacities. Drivers will face occasional restrictions during the project, due to be completed in 2020.
