Video: Dykon implodes Austin flyover

Dykon, Tulsa, Oklahoma, imploded part of a flyover on I-35 in Austin, Texas, on May 8.

According to the Texas Department of Transportation, the demolition was necessary due to the steep grade of the bridge, which resulted in larger trucks frequently being slowed and subsequent traffic delays.

According to KUT, the demolition is part of a $124.2 million project that involves the construction of three new flyovers, reconstruction of the St. Johns Avenue Bridge, the extension of exit and entrance lanes, and other work.  

According to KUT, “The explosives [were] wrapped with ‘blast mats’—railroad ties bolted together and strapped around the explosives. That gets wrapped in a synthetic fabric commonly used in construction. Then the whole thing is wrapped with chain-link fence. The goal is to muffle sound, direct the blast inward toward the concrete and contain debris.”

The Texas Department of Transportation declined to note the type or quantity of explosives used on the job.

A second implosion to demo a remaining part of the flyover is scheduled for May 15.

J.D. Abrams, Austin, is the lead contractor on the job.

Watch the video of the implosion below, courtesy of KUT: