LA 47 over the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway

In-depth inspection, load rating, and rehabilitation.

Project Challenges

The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (LA DOTD) needed an in-depth inspection performed after Hurricane Katrina. This bridge links the oil and gas refineries in Chalmette, Louisiana to the I-10 corridor.

Our Solutions

TRC performed an in-depth inspection of this 6,620’ long steel tied arch bridge in Orleans Parish in 2006. The bridge consists of three through truss main bridge spans with a total length of 1,248 feet; 11 steel girder spans and 10 concrete girder spans and 12 concrete slab spans on the north and south approaches. Technical rope access, snooper, bucket truck, and confined space operations were used to complete the inspection.

TRC prepared a detailed bridge inspection report, along with updating the SI&A data and PONTIS element conditions. Non-destructive Acoustic Emission (AE) monitoring was performed to re-evaluate the retrofit of cracks in the lower chord of the east truss. A detailed assessment was also made of the existing coating system.

LA DOTD called on TRC in 2016 to perform a detailed load rating of each superstructure span. This complex load rating was performed using AASHTOWare BrR, MIDAS Civil, and Mathcad. Based on the results of the in-depth inspection and load rating, TRC was asked to develop repair and rehabilitation plans along with a new 75-year coating system for the bridge.

The Outcome

As a result of TRC’s extensive bridge experience, quality work, and efficient operations in inspection, load rating and design, LA DOTD and the local industry are able to rely on this critical transportation link for years to come.

Client
Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development

Project Location
New Orleans, Louisiana