At Ulteig, our commitment to infrastructure improvement is exemplified in projects like the rehabilitation of the North Dakota Department of Transportation (NDDOT) I-94 bridges.
We sat down with two of our engineers, Mary Boechler, PE, the project manager and technical lead, and Nikki Olson, PE, the environmental lead, to glean insights about the challenges and successes of this project.
Initial Assessment and Planning
When Boechler first reviewed the bridges, she confirmed that while they were structurally sound and in fair condition, further maintenance was required to extend their useful life.
Planning began with a field review meeting, where stakeholders identified necessary repair types and outlined the environmental documentation needed. This roadmap prioritized environmental concerns and public input throughout the length of the project.
Boechler and Olson maintained regular communication with the team, ensuring everyone was aligned with budget and scheduling. Consistent progress reports and biweekly meetings facilitated collaboration and communication.
Design Considerations
The range of deficiencies and types of bridge required custom repair types, along with traffic control considerations during construction. Design specifications had the potential to change mid-project, and these changes to previously-laid plans required an utmost adherence to NDDOT standards.
Environmental Considerations
Public involvement and the potential impact on local ecosystems also played a large role in the project’s overall scope. The team conducted thorough assessments of wetlands, threatened or endangered species and cultural resources, ensuring compliance with environmental regulations and expectations from the community.
Impact on Traffic and Communities
The project necessitated road closures during construction, impacting local traffic. Though this posed challenges, Boechler and Olson noted that the long-term benefits of the rehabilitation outweighed short-term inconveniences. The improvements enhanced safety and reliability for interstate travelers, benefiting the broader community.
Engineering Methods
Proper rehabilitation required engineering methods and materials tailored to address key issues, ensuring each bridge’s durability and safety. Necessary repairs included:
- Rail Retrofits: Incorporating steel components to create compliant railing systems on the bridges and replacing approach guardrails to meet current safety standards
- Concrete Overlays: Removing various depths of unsound concrete from the bridge deck and replacing with deck and overlay concrete
- Crack Sealing: Utilizing epoxy sealers and cement repair mortars to seal cracks
- Approach Slabs: Replacing existing approach slabs and reestablishing seals between the approach slab and bridge deck
- Erosion Repairs: Filling erosion holes with embankment materials
- Joint Repairs: Implementing silicone joints with backer rods for effective sealing
- Spall Repairs: Removing unsound concrete in various locations (curbs, abutments, piers) and replacing with new concrete material
Challenges and Lessons Learned
Despite the project’s overall smooth progression, Boechler’s team experienced challenges, including changes during the PS&E phase that required timely revisions to nearly completed plans.
Coordinating public input for the project also posed logistical challenges. Boechler and Olson’s collaborative, flexible approach was what ultimately allowed them to overcome these hurdles.
Future Monitoring
Post-rehabilitation, the bridges will undergo standard two-year inspections by the NDDOT to assess their condition. This will allow future maintenance needs to be identified and resolved early, prolonging the lifespan of the structures.
Ulteig: Solve Your Most Complex Infrastructure Challenges
The I-94 bridge rehabilitation project exemplifies Ulteig’s commitment to enhancing infrastructure through thoughtful planning, execution and community engagement.
As we continue to work on similar projects across the region, we remain enthusiastic about our role in extending the life of critical structures, contributing to the safety and efficiency of our transportation networks.
Partner with us today to ensure your infrastructure remains safe, reliable and responsive to the needs of all.
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