Design and Construction of Modern Curved Bridges

The overall objectives of this project were to investigate and synthesize state-of-the-art practice for the efficient design and construction of curved bridges, and to identify research needs regarding strength and stability of curved bridges. The project resulted in progress towards establishing a curved steel bridge stability research program within the University of Alabama system. The work was conducted by graduate students whose efforts have resulted in several papers and presentations. The project enabled the investigators to participate in national level conferences and meetings. Research literature was collected that will facilitate continued research efforts. The planning, design, fabrication, and construction of a local curved I-girder bridge flyover was studied to gain a better understanding of practical challenges associated with curved bridge design and construction. Curved I-girder and box girder stability topics that can be tackled within a university research environment were identified through the background research and interaction with industry leaders. A meeting with Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT) bridge engineers provided insight into the research and education needs and interests of Alabama. The project facilitated interaction with prominent curved bridge researchers, industry leaders, and state and federal government division and program managers. This report concisely summarizes the activities and accomplishments of the research team. Technical results of the effort will be disseminated through conference presentations and proceedings, journal publications, student theses and dissertations, and the final report of a follow-on project, UTCA Project 03228, "Stability of Curved Bridges during Construction." The generation of so much information on this topic and contacts with so many experts in the field made the Principal Investigator uniquely prepared to advance the state of practice of curved bridge design in Alabama. Future civil engineering students and bridge owners (ALDOT, counties, and cities) will certainly benefit from this knowledge.