State Route 173 at Big Pines Creek

Technical Description:

• Span: 24 ft
• Rise: 10 ft
• Length: 40 ft

In September 2006, a wildfire broke out three miles from the north shore of Lake Arrowhead, burning more than 2,500 acres of dry grass and brush. The fire severely damaged a timber bridge at State Route 173 and Big Pines Creek, forcing the California Department of Transportation to close the road.

Caltrans immediately began assessment of the bridge for repair, but soon declared the need for the complete replacement of the structure under the guidelines of an emergency replacement. Looking for a solution that would both clear span 24 feet and offer speed in the installation process, Caltrans chose a CON/SPAN^® structure.

The precast system, produced off-site and trucked into the area, could be installed quickly. Caltrans’ contractor was able to install the precast bridge components in one day. The new bridge is fireresistant and has no deck to maintain. The road was quickly reopened and safety concerns were alleviated.

Technical Description:

• Span: 24 ft
• Rise: 10 ft
• Length: 40 ft