Bridges

This paper will present a detailed assessment undertaken of an existing three spans simply supported reinforced concrete bridge constructed in 1979, located in the Colac Otway Shire over the Great Ocean Road, Victoria. The structural assessment and upgrade for bridgeís beams, piers, and piles is to resist a live load of 75%SM1600, an additional 200m thick of concrete overlay over the existing superstructure. In addition, the provision of a new pedestrian crossing in the side of the bridge is designed to be installed either attached or separate from the existing bridge superstructure.

Wallbridge Gilbert Aztec (WGA) was engaged by the Department of Transport (DOT) to provide technical advice regarding the concept design of the bridge upgrade, and to undertake the detail design of this structure.

A strengthening methodology is proposed to enhance an adequate strength. Structural capacity checks are made for each stage of the intended strengthening process. The existing cracks and repairing techniques will be discussed.

This paper will also provide a summary of the challenges encountered through design, including that the strengthening works and constructing the pedestrian bridge should be made minimising the requirement for temporary or permanent works in the waterway of Skenes Creek. Furthermore, the bridge is to be strengthened and remain partially open to traffic during construction.