Cost-Effective Rehabilitation of Two Aluminum Bridges on Long Island, New York

Abstract

After testing of a full-scale model semimonocoque airframe aluminum bridge at Lehigh University in 1960, New York State built two similar four-span aluminum structures on Long Island, which were opened to traffic in 1965. During an inspection in 1996, galvanic corrosion of the aluminum superstructure at contact surfaces with the steel bearings in presence of moisture, limited distortion or buckling of members at some of these locations, and damage to the bridge underside when struck by a vehicle taller than available clearance were noticed. Otherwise, the rest of the structure appeared to be in good condition. Due to the unique structural configuration, an investigation of viable procedures for repair and maintenance of these structures was conducted. This investigation resulted in the cost-effective rehabilitation procedure described in this paper.