Rapid bridge deck replacement (RBDR) is the method of replacing a bridge deck using innovative, alternative deck systems to perform needed repair under an accelerated construction schedule. Through employing RBDR techniques, state highway agencies (SHAs) can meet current transportation challenges by repairing our nation's bridges while minimizing construction-related impacts. SHAs within the U.S. were surveyed on their experience with RBDR projects. Survey results are divided into the following categories: decision-making factors, construction schedules, construction techniques, contractual methods, costs, and innovations in safety and/or technology employed. Of the 51 responding agencies, 24 agencies have experience with RBDR; of which 54% have less than five years of experience and 63% have completed less than five RBDR projects suggesting the practice is new and most agencies are inexperienced. The strongest factors influencing decision-making are: traffic volume, critical bridge, safety, and impact on local business. Most of the RBDR projects are performed on highways and freeways, in both urban and rural areas. Lane closures are the most common closure scenario allowing construction to proceed while maintaining partial throughput capacity. Most agencies use nighttime closures, reducing road user impact and providing a safer environment. Although 86% of the responding agencies experienced an increase in construction costs, 68% agreed that RBDR projects are perceived as a cost-savings mechanism with respect to the road users. Information collected from this survey, along with lessons learned and safety/construction technologies employed, allow knowledge to be transferred to practitioners that may have little or no experience with RBDR techniques.
Samenvatting