WisDOT’s $1 million replacement of two deficient bridges in Dodge County illustrates intergovernmental cooperation and innovative use of Accelerated Bridge Construction techniques. The project involved a partnership between the Federal Highway Administration, Wisconsin Department of Transportation, University of Wisconsin Local Technical Assistance Program and Dodge County that showcased use of a Geosynthetic Reinforced Soil – Integrated Bridge System (GRS-IBS) substructure coupled with a Prefabricated Bridge Elements and Systems superstructure. GRS-IBS method allowed replacement of both deteriorating 70-year-old structures within a two-month period. Along with an accelerated construction timeframe to minimize traveler inconvenience, GRS-IBS offers a simple but flexible design, reduced costs and minimal maintenance needs. Because it uses more simplified earthwork methods compared to conventional bridge construction methods, GRS-IBS is expected to increase the number of qualified contract bidders to enhance competition and hold down costs.
America's Transportation Awards 