As the nation's bridges age and deteriorate, repair and rehabilitation of these structures becomes more critical every year. New legislation allowing heavier trucks on our roads intensifies the problem. Often repairs must be done to extend the life of the bridge until it can be replaced. At MI Engineering we realize the importance of accurate and concise plans and contract documents, for large and small projects alike. Example projects highlighting recent staff experience are shown below.

When a new weight restriction was posted for Person County bridge #198, the local plant decided to pay for strengthening of the bridge, rather than re-route their supply trucks. After obtaining approval from NCDOT, the plant proceeded with the project.
MI Engineering staff working for Ko & Associates calculated the capacity required to eliminate the posting and designed steel cover plates to add the necessary strength to the rolled steel beams.

Beginning in 2004 MI Engineering staff working for Ko & Associates had a chance to team with Whitman, Requardt, & Associates to develop rehabilitation plans for several bridges owned by VDOT. The projects included field assessments, repair recommendations, contract drawings, and engineering estimates.
The rehab for Route 621 over Nomini Creek in Westmoreland County required a field investigation, verification of the most recent structure inspection report, and calculation of load capacity ratings. This information was included in a Phase I design report along with several repair alternates and cost estimates.
The Carter Glass Bridge carries Rte. 29 over the James River, Concord Road, and CSXT and Norfolk Southern Railway lines in Amherst County. The project included development of plan sheets for steel bearing replacement, abutment backwall reconstruction, substructure surface repair, and waterproofing.
For the bridge carrying the westbound lanes of Rte. 360 over the Pamunkey River on the border between King William and Hanover Counties, MI Engineering staff working at Ko & Associates played a key role in the development of the rehabilitation plans from beginning to end. The project was comprised of a field evaluation, load rating analysis, and a Phase I design report, which included several repair alternates with associated cost estimates.
VDOT selected a preferred alternate and work continued with preliminary and final rehabilitation plans. The final repairs included milling and overlay of the deck, replacement or elimination of expansion joints, replacement of steel bearings with elastomeric, and various surface repairs to the concrete substructure.

Repair of historically significant structures requires exceptional sensitivity and attention to detail. MI Engineering professionals can find a balance between the structural requirements and the historical character of these bridges. Example projects highlighting recent staff experience are shown below.

In 2001 MI Engineering staff working for Ko & Associates devised plans for the restoration of a historic iron truss bridge. The Old Red Bridge, originally built to carry vehicular traffic over Spring Creek, was later converted for pedestrian use.
A detailed on-site evaluation was conducted. Recommended repairs included replacement of bearings and anchor bolts, repair or replacement of several truss members and connections, and replacement of the timber decking and metal handrails. The truss members also received a new coat of signature red paint. The cost for the restoration was approximately $270,000.
The restored bridge now provides safe and convenient pedestrian access to downtown Hot Springs from the bed and breakfast on the other side of the creek. And part of the town's history has been preserved for future generations.

While working at Ko & Associates, MI Engineering staff had the opportunity to work with the West Virginia Department of Transportation to conduct a condition inspection and create repair plans for two historic covered bridges. This contract was part of West Virginia's plan to preserve all of its remaining covered bridges statewide.
The bridge at Hoke's Mill was originally built between 1897 and 1899 for about $700. It is a modified Long truss spanning 81 feet with a width of 12 feet.
The repairs were completed in 2002 for approximately $400,000 and the bridge was opened for pedestrian use. Repairs included replacing transverse floor beams with steel beams and installing longitudinal W sections for additional support.
The bridge across Indian creek was originally built in 1903 by Ray & Oscar Weikel for around $400. The structure is a Long truss with a span of 49 feet and a width of 12 feet. The bridge carried traffic continuously for 30 years before it was abandoned in the 1920's. It was partially restored by the Monroe County Historical Society in 1965.
Recommended repairs were completed in 2000 for approximately $335,000 and the bridge was re-opened for pedestrian use. Renovations included timber roof trusses, a new glue-laminated timber deck, new wooden exterior siding and a new roof of split shakes.