Segmental Concrete Bridge Technology

Is a Segmental Bridge Right For You?

Segmental construction is only appropriate for a small percentage of bridges. Consider segmental if one or more of the following applies:

• The maximum span length is greater than about 300'. At this range, segmental bridges may be cost competitive with other superstructure types
• There are a lot of repetitive -- and usually short (70'-150') -- spans. If there are more than about 20 or 30 spans, segmental may be economical, particularly if there is good site access (water for barges or existing streets that parallel the bridge for haul vehicles).
• The site is very restricted. As other bridge systems become very expensive to build, segmental costs rise only moderately when access is limited. Overhead gantries can be attached to the substructure to transport segments. Segments brought in on the approach road can be lifted at the abutments and transported longitudinally on a gantry to the location required.
• Traffic disruption needs to be kept to a minimum. Segmental bridge construction can, in many instances, be configured so that very little superstructure construction impacts streets below.
• Aesthetics. Many a bridge project has tipped in the favor of segmentals for their simple elegance.