Assessing bridge deficiencies after a natural disaster
Hurricanes in Florida are known to damage the state’s infrastructure if they are severe. That’s the case with the Sebastian Inlet Bridge—it spans Sebastian Inlet, one of five navigable channels that connect the Indian River Lagoon to the Atlantic Ocean. The bridge is located adjacent to the Sebastian Inlet State Park and within the Sebastian Inlet District Commission right of way.
Following Hurricane Florence in 2018, the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) District Four engaged us to evaluate the bridge for possible storm damage. We were the prime consultant for the Project Development and Environment Study. Based on our evaluation, the bridge was rated as structurally deficient with a sufficiency rating of 51.6 and a health index of 79.8—bridges with a health index of less than 85 require repairs or replacement. Once a bridge is identified as structurally deficient, as this one was, FDOT's work program requires that repair or replacement corrective actions are initiated within six years.
Currently underway, the project looks to address the bridge’s structural and functional deficiencies identified in our study and will also address the gap in system linkage for bicyclists and pedestrians.
At a Glance
- Offices
- Client
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- FDOT - District 4
Beth Beam, Senior Transportation Planner
Maintaining an enthusiastic attitude—and helping others do the same—is key to a project's success.
Todd DeMunda, Associate, Senior Coastal Engineer
The future of coastal engineering is sustainability—we must design with a recognition and understanding of long-term changes and impacts.
Mohit Soni, Principal, Business Center Practice Leader
I’m excited by the prospect of designing for the future of transportation which, in turn, connects my communities by bridging the gaps.
Brook Wolfe, Senior Associate, Senior Environmental Scientist
My goal is to guide development to minimize impacts to sensitive resources and assist with mitigation where impacts cannot be avoided.
Heather Grubert, Senior Drainage Engineer
I strive to create an inclusive and creative work environment where everyone can achieve their goals.
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