MDOT Bridge Ratings

Statewide, MA
BRIDGE RATING
Field Inspection
Structural analysis
Computer modeling
Repair recommendations
KEY GILL STAFF
Joseph Gill, Proj Mgr
Preston Huckabee, Proj Eng
Paul Moyer, Sr. Engineer
Sami Kassis, Sr. Engineer
Patrick Chiu, Engineer
Nathan Rosencranz, Engineer
CLIENT / OWNER
Mass Dept of Transportation
REFERENCE
Brian Clang
MDOT Bridge Inspection
Engineer
617-973-7763
SCHEDULE
2005-2009

Gill Engineering provided structural engineering services to the

Massachusetts Department of Transportation Highway Division for the
determination of the safe live load capacity of bridge structures in their
current condition, considering deterioration and damage. In addition, we
reviewed existing ratings and necessary calculations to bring them into
compliance with the National Bridge Inspection Standards.
Our engineers reviewed previous ratings, inspection reports, as-built
drawings, and performed field inspections to verify existing conditions. Full
analytical live load rating calculations were prepared for standard AASHTO
H20, HS20, Type 3 and Type 3S2 trucks, using Allowable Stress Design and
Load Factor Rating methods.
Inspection rating reports, prepared in MDOT format, included specific
recommendations to address structural deficiencies and improve the load
carrying capacity of the bridge.
After the August, 2007 Minnesota Bridge collapse, NTSB and FHWA issued a
Technical Advisory recommending a detailed analysis of gusset plates in
truss bridges. All truss bridge ratings performed by GEA incorporated such
an analysis.
Ratings were performed for a total of 18 structures of varying construction,
including the Boston B-16-259 I-93/US1/ST3 over the MBTA and Columbia
Road. This 23-span 1527-foot long structure is constructed of a coverplated composite steel stringer superstructure, supported by built up steel
pier bents and reinforced concrete abutments.