Abstract Manager

Many factors are involved in selecting the type of superstructure to be used for a crossing. Construction cost, lifecycle costs, durability, sustainability, environmental impact, and societal disruption are just some of the factors that an owner must consider when deciding which bridge superstructure type is most appropriate for their application. The bridge designer will need to consider bridge span, loading, in situ soil conditions, elevation difference between roadways and roadway geometry, among other factors, when deciding which bridge types are suitable for the application. A recently constructed overpass for the Trans Canada Highway located in Newfoundland will be presented as a case study exploring the process of how to select a superstructure type for a crossing to meet the needs of the owner and the designer. The presentation will cover how the durability and design needs of the crossing can be considered in a pre-tender phase to influence superstructure type selection. Additional information will be presented on how to incorporate sustainability concerns in to the superstructure type selection including lifecycle assessments.