STEEL SIGNATURE BRIDGES: SYNTHESIZING FORM & FUNCTION

This paper discusses the typical design development process and objectives for signature bridge projects. Three project case studies are presented to demonstrate how project goals were achieved using bridge systems that have integrity, creativity and vision. The first project is the Damen Avenue Arch Bridge in Chicago, Illinois. The structure spans 308 ft (94 m) over the Chicago River. The ribs are unbraced and fabricated from 4 ft (1.2 m) diameter steel pipe. The superstructure is comprised of a longitudinally post-tensioned, cast-in-place concrete deck and stiffening girders that are supported by transverse steel box beams. The East Fork Cable-Stayed Bridge spans 465 ft (141.7 m) over the East Fork of the White River in Columbus, Indiana. The pylon consists of a quadruped configuration with steel pipe legs that are inclined and converge at the apex of the quadruped. Two planes of cable stays, arranged in a fan pattern, support the composite steel and post-tensioned concrete superstructure. The Chavanon Suspension Bridge is located in France on the A89 Motorway. The bridge consists of a 1,180 ft (360 m) axial suspension span over the Chavanon River valley. The bridge is the longest span axial suspension bridge in the world. The axial suspension system consists of a centrally located pair of main cables that support a plane of vertical suspenders connecting to the superstructure. The superstructure consists of a single steel box girder.