FHWA R&D PROGRAM PRODUCES MAJOR IMPROVEMENTS IN SEISMIC DESIGN OF HIGHWAY BRIDGES

A comprehensive research program coordinated by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) has recently achieved its objective of developing and implementing guidelines for improved earthquake protection of new and existing bridges. This program is part of a success story, starting with identification of the need for research and culminating with AASHTO's acceptance of new specification provisions and widespread use by bridge engineers of other important recommendations emanating from the research program. (Author)