Title:
Improving Transportation Network Resiliency Using In-Situ Evaluation and Innovative Construction Methods
Author(s):
Erik Zuker
Publication:
Web Session
Volume:
ws_F23_ErikZuker-AndrewFoden.pdf
Issue:
Appears on pages(s):
Keywords:
DOI:
Date:
10/29/2023
Abstract:
In the coming years, transportation networks will experience unprecedented demands due to trends in freight as well as extreme weather driven by climate variability. These demands are set against a backdrop of infrastructure deterioration as many bridges reach the end of their intended service lives. The resiliency framework has allowed bridge owners to be proactive at every level from materials and detailing through retrofits, rapid replaceability and route redundancy. Two aspects of structural resiliency will be examined. Firstly, the use of technology to load test in-service culverts that are experiencing loads that they were not originally designed for. Information gained allows bridge owners to assess performance and potentially avoid major rehabilitation, diverting critical funds elsewhere. Separately, it may lead to removing postings which can improve freight network efficiency. Secondly, rapid replacement of single span bridges by filler beam structures will be discussed. These structures simplify logistics during erection, are less sensitive to supply chain issues due to allowable variation in beam size, are highly resistant to truck impact and are shallower than conventional spans. Rapid replaceability can prove consequential in returning to normal after an extreme weather event affects an entire region and strains the construction supply chain. Small bridges can also play an outsized role in network vulnerability.