S.R. 2010, Sections 08B and 03L (Bridgetown Pike over Neshaminy Creek), Middletown and Northampton Twps., Bucks County, PASITE-BLAUVELT Engineers was retained by the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) to provide the professional engineering services that were needed to replace the structure carrying Bridgetown Pike over Neshaminy Creek, while at the same time maintaining the cultural features of the historical district and improving safety and traffic operations within the study area.The project was borne out of the need to replace an existing two-span, 142' long riveted steel pony truss bridge over the Neshaminy Creek (which was ultimately left in place) that provided a total cartway of only 14'-8½" and was rated for a maximum load of 3-tons. In addition to the substandard load rating, the existing bridge had many design deficiencies that resulted in the need for its replacement. In addition to the bridge work, it was necessary to eliminate an existing substandard "S" curve in the alignment of S.R. 2010 (west of its intersection with S.R. 413) that would greatly improve the operation and safety of S.R. 2010. It was also necessary to realign the intersection of S.R. 2010 and S.R. 413 in order to rectify safety and capacity deficiencies that were caused by the offset of two legs of S.R. 2010, and to raise S.R. 2010 above the 50-year flood levels without increasing backwater. The new two-span structure utilizes continuous composite steel plate girders, with one span being 148'-0" in length and the other 142'-0" in length, which are in turn supported by concrete abutments and a pier with steel H-pile footings. Total curb-to-curb width of the structure is 36'-0". On the western leg of Bridgetown Pike, a mechanically-stabilized earth (MSE) retaining wall was constructed to protect the recreational/bike trail from motorized traffic and to retain the embankment of the proposed roadway. The wall was connected continuously with the proposed bridge structure and the same aesthetic treatments were used to maintain the rustic appearance of the structure. Because the structure is low in profile and visible from two adjoining properties, the aesthetics were of concern relative to both color and texture. To mitigate the impacts of the proposed improvements, guide rail was specified to be earth tone in color (Weathered Steel) so that it would blend with the historical surroundings and stone veneers that were used on all bridge abutments, piers, retaining walls, and parapets. Through the implementation of an aggressive maintenance and protection of traffic program, project work task scheduling, and innovative construction techniques, the project was completed 6 months ahead of schedule at a cost of $5.4 million -- 90% under the estimated amount. The overall success of this project was recognized through its receipt of the 2001 Project of the Year Award from the American Society of Highway Engineers, Delaware Valley (PA) Chapter. |
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