Bridges

Questions What’s the main role of a bridge? While maintaining safety, what are some ways that the bridge design might be constrained or controlled? –Length and width –Height or clearance: no sub-structure or all sub- structure –Materials: preference or cost –Supports/abutments: Soil type, or over water Bridge safety is a major issue in PA

Minnesota I-35 The I-35W bridge over the Mississippi in Minneapolis collapsed during rush hour on August 1, 2007, plunging dozens of cars and their occupants into the river. The calamity disrupted transportation, aimed a spotlight on public infrastructure, and evoked an outpouring of public response.

Bridge news Highlights of stimulus.doc

Design CP\Truss Bridge Examples.pdf