September 3, 2024

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CHICAGO - There’s a vital new resource available for anyone who designs steel railroad bridges, thanks to a collaboration between the American Railway Engineering and Maintenance-of-Way Association and the National Steel Bridge Alliance.

The document, “Guidelines for the Design of Steel Railroad Bridges for Constructability and Fabrication,” describes special considerations for railroad bridges in the areas of design, girders, boxes, trusses, floor systems, decks and walkways, bolting, corrosion protection systems, and construction.

It complements the recommendations given in AREMA Manual for Railway Engineering, Chapter 15--Steel Structures, providing guidance and best practices that can lead to rail bridges that are more economical to fabricate, construct, and maintain.

“These guidelines will help streamline the design and fabrication process to provide for efficient and economical steel bridge design and construction,” said American Institute of Steel Construction Vice President of Bridges Brandon Chavel, PE, PhD. “It was a true pleasure to partner with AREMA on this project, and I’d like to thank Chair Jaclyn Whelan, PE, of Consolidated Rail Corporation for her tireless leadership on this project.”

The document is a result of a collaborative effort between NSBA and members of AREMA Committee 15, Steel Structures, including individuals representing owners, designers, fabricators, constructors, and academia. It’s available as a free download from both NSBA and AREMA.

Walter F. Bleser, II, PE, who serves as AREMA functional group vice president – structures and president and CEO of ARE Corporation, noted the sheer scale of this undertaking. “Discussions and coordination began over four years ago,” he said. “AREMA is very appreciative of the collaboration with the National Steel Bridge Alliance to develop this resource--and a big thank you to all the individuals who contributed their time and feedback to develop this guideline which will showcase the steel railroad bridge industry!”