Technical Description:
• 28' x 11' x 30' CON/SPAN® B-Series Bridge System
• Four - 5' x 2'-2" x 7' EXPRESS® Foundations
• Two - 5' x 2'-2" x 31' EXPRESS® Foundations
Originally constructed in the 1960s, the existing structure on Cheltenham Road over Hyde Run in Wilmington, Delaware was deteriorating and needed to be replaced. The 10'-6" x 5'-10" opening of the structure was inadequate, overtopping during storm events and causing road closures. Additionally, the existing roadway alignment did not meet current safety standards and needed to be corrected. The Westminster Civic Association (WCA) spearheaded the project and contacted Pennoni Associates Inc for help.
Pennoni, in conjunction with Contech Engineered Solutions, decided that a 28' x 11' CON/SPAN® B-Series Bridge System, 30' in length, was the best solution to replace the failing structure. The CON/SPAN structure not only met the project requirements but was also cost effective and able to provide a quick installation.
Overall, the modular, precast system included five arches, two headwalls and four wingwalls. To further expedite the installation, the CON/SPAN structure was placed via crane on four - 5' wide x 2'-2" thick x 7' long and two - 5' wide x 2'-2" thick x 31' long precast EXPRESS® Foundations. A formliner with a slate pattern finish was added to the headwalls and wingwalls enhancing the overall aesthetics of the structure.
From the very beginning, the site offered many challenges. Located close to the deteriorating structure were also an intersecting roadway, a driveway in disrepair, a residential driveway bridge, and utilities. All of these components complicated the project, while also affecting the hydraulics of the stream. For this reason, the project included not only a replacement for the deteriorating stream crossing but also realignment of the new bridge and adjacent driveway, as well as removal of the residential driveway bridge located upstream. The challenges were met, and the entire project was completed without disturbing the stream or surrounding wetlands.
"The bridge and road reconstruction project provided a vital connection into the community of Westminster," stated Kevin Donnelly with the New Castle Conservation District (NCCD). "The CON/SPAN bridge was the critical component of the project. The high quality of the fabrication and precision dimensions of the bridge, combined with the excellent project design and engineering by Pennoni enabled the contractor, Merit Construction Engineers, to complete this project on schedule and on-budget."
Funding support was provided by Delaware State Rep. Gerald Brady and the NCCD.
Technical Description:
• 28' x 11' x 30' CON/SPAN® B-Series Bridge System
• Four - 5' x 2'-2" x 7' EXPRESS® Foundations
• Two - 5' x 2'-2" x 31' EXPRESS® Foundations