Let's Build! [B17]

Once the contract plans are complete and the job is let, the engineering work isn't over. In this session, we will dive into two projects. Take a look at what went into the construction of the Frederick Douglass Memorial Bridge and the I-480 Valley View Bridge.

In the heart of Washington, DC, the new Frederick Douglass Memorial Bridge will soon replace an existing 68-year-old structure over the Anacostia River. The new, multi-arch bridge consists of three steel arch spans: a 540-ft main span and 452-ft side spans. We'll look at this signature project from the erection engineer's perspective and consider lessons learned from building this unique structural system.

The I-480 Valley View Bridge project includes a new 200-ft-tall, 4,150-ft-long steel girder bridge near Cleveland, Ohio. The project team includes general contractor Walsh Construction, lead designer Jacobs, and erection engineer Janssen & Spaans Engineering. Erecting the structural steel uses three gantry cranes operating on the two existing bridge. The team had to analyze whether the existing structures could accommodate the construction loads in addition to full traffic loading. Come hear all about it!

Track: Students

View content