Category: Monthly Webinar Rapid Replacement of CSX’s Bayou Sara Bridge Swing Span in Alabama

November 12, 2020 1:00 pm

David Knickerbocker, Ph.D., P.E., Movable Bridge Practice Lead, HDR, Inc.; and Kevin Kane, P.E., Project Manager, Brasfield & Gorrie, L.L.C.

Winner of Best ABC Project in the Prefabricated Bridge Elements and Systems (Railroad Bridge) Category at the 2019 International ABC Conference!

Webinar Documents:
Rapid Replacement of CSX’s Bayou Sara Bridge Swing Span in Alabama - pdf of presentation
Slide 26: Video of Bayou Sara Bridge Swing Span replacement (courtesy of Brasfield & Gorrie, the contractor)
Q&A Session – pdf

News - November 12, 2020 - pdf of presentation

Description: CSX’s Bayou Sara Bridge swing span was approaching 100 years of age and in need of replacement. Objectives for the replacement included minimized maintenance, remote operation capability, and a premium on speed of replacement, to minimize service interruption. The rail service outage duration for the replacement of the bridge was originally 48 hours, but was subsequently reduced to 14 hours a few months prior to the scheduled 2017 replacement date at the Owner’s request. This presentation highlights the design and construction details, collaboration among multiple entities, accelerated bridge construction strategies, and lessons learned for the project.

Presentation Photos/Graphics:

 

1) Existing Bayou Sara Bridge to be replaced

2) Existing bridge being lifted with existing center pier cap attached

3) Aerial view of new span floating into position

4) New Bayou Sara Swing Bridge in service shortly after float-in