RECENT PROJECTS
Bridge Structural Evaluation — Vero Beach, FL
Structural condition and load-path evaluation of an aging bridge span in Vero Beach, including assessment of observed deterioration, structural capacity, and development of appropriate load-posting recommendations and a phased rehabilitation plan.
SI
THRESHOLD INSPECTOR
Location
Vero Beach, Indian River County, FL
STRUCTURE TYPE
Vehicular Bridge
our role
Forensic/Structural Engineer
SERVICE LINE
Limited Structural Capacity Documentation. A crossing with no capacity analysis on file
The bridge remained in daily service and had undergone previous visual condition reviews; however, no load-rating or structural capacity analysis was available for review as part of the project records. As the owner began planning for rehabilitation, a more detailed engineering evaluation was needed to assess the existing structural capacity, distinguish components requiring replacement from those suitable for repair or continued service, and establish a technically supported basis for rehabilitation planning.
The Problem
What We Were Retained to Evaluate
The bridge exhibited measurable section loss at bearing locations, deck cracking, and concrete spalling at the pier caps, raising concerns regarding the condition and capacity of the existing structural components. With the bridge remaining in daily service, the owner required an engineering evaluation to assess its load-carrying capacity, determine the significance of the observed deterioration, and establish whether load restrictions or other interim measures should be considered while appropriate repairs were developed.
THE ENGINEERING RESPONSE
How We Approached It
We performed a detailed evaluation of the bridge superstructure and substructure, documenting observed deterioration and measuring remaining section where corrosion and material loss were present. The structural load path and critical components were analyzed using applicable loading criteria, engineering standards, and existing-condition information to assess load-carrying capacity.
Observed deficiencies were evaluated based on their location, severity, structural function, and potential effect on performance, rather than visual appearance alone. This approach allowed the rehabilitation recommendations to focus on components and conditions having the greatest significance to structural capacity and continued service.
Scope of Work
What the Engagement Included
- Detailed inspection of bridge superstructure, substructure, and bearing components
- Measurement and documentation of section loss at deteriorated steel members
- Deck and pier cap crack mapping and condition documentation
- Structural load-path evaluation and member capacity analysis using applicable loading criteria and engineering standards
- Load-rating analysis and development of recommended posting limits
- Identification and prioritization of structural deficiencies
- Phased rehabilitation recommendations with repair-priority sequencing
Outcome
The evaluation established technically supported load-posting recommendations and a prioritized rehabilitation program based on the bridge’s observed condition and structural capacity. The phased approach provided the owner with an engineering framework for planning, permitting, and implementing repairs in accordance with structural priorities and available project resources.
This project was completed as part of our Structural Design & Analysis and Structural Condition Assessment services. For bridges and other existing structures requiring capacity evaluation, rehabilitation, or repair, we can review the available information and help define the appropriate scope of engineering services.
Have a Structure That Requires Engineering Evaluation?
Send us the property or project information, available photographs or documentation, and any applicable deadlines. We’ll review the available information, discuss the conditions or concerns involved, and help define the appropriate scope of engineering services and next steps.
