Innovative Applications of Precast Concrete on Complex Long Span Bridge Projects in Colorado

A number of recent urban bridge projects with long spans and complex geometry have been designed and built using a variety of innovative applications of precast concrete girder and deck slab construction. Concrete U girders, cast in both curved and straight segments, are spliced and post tensioned to create a new alternative approach to complex bridge construction. The success of these projects, which are all currently in service, clearly demonstrates the advantages of using commercially precast concrete products to construct cost-effective, complex long span structures in high profile applications where aesthetics and urban geometrics are significant design consideration. This paper will review the development of design concepts and the project involved and will describe the design and construction challenges and the solutions that were successfully implemented.