Horizontally Curved Steel Bridge Research-Update 2

Theory and data necessary for the development and calibration of an LRFD based curved steel bridge specification do not presently exist. To address these needs, the Federal Highway Administration and the AASHTO-sponsored National Cooperative Highway Research Program are jointly administrating a coordinating program of research intended to provide a revised ASD and LFD design specification and eventually an LRFD-based design specification. This program focuses on four areas: 1) synthesis of literature review since the CURT project; 2) update of the current guide specification; 3) conduct of research recommended by SSRC Task Group 14 at the April 14-15 workshop; and 4) development of a Load and Resistance Factor Design specification based on research performed under area 3. While awaiting the findings of the FHWA research program, there is a pressing need for improved specifications based on current practice and technology that can be implemented immediately and can be recommended to AASHTO for consideration for adoption. The revised guide specification will be applicable to the design, fabrications and erection of curved steel I- and box-girder bridges and will include both ASD and LFD design methods. The project contract period is 27 months commencing from January 1, 1993 to March 31, 1995.