We are conducting a testing effort at the Satsop Business Park.
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WSDOT is taking the first steps toward replacing the SR 520 floating bridge with innovative pontoon construction tests.
On Aug. 24, 2009, WSDOT awarded Advanced Construction Methods and Engineering for Pontoons to Quigg Bros., Inc. for their low bid of $2.8 million.
These tests help move pontoon construction forward by field-testing various pontoon construction methods and techniques. The work includes constructing mock-up pontoon sections and testing different concrete mixes and forming methods.
WSDOT is conducting this work now in to further inform the design of new SR 520 bridge pontoons and provide more detailed information to the pontoon construction contractor.
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A new approach to bridge pontoon building
This is a preliminary graphic of a future SR 520 bridge pontoon, compared to a football field.
- The shaded area represents the mock-up section WSDOT is building as part of the testing work.
- The white area represents the cells and walls of a finished SR 520 bridge pontoon.
The pontoons for the SR 520 floating bridge are the largest we’ve designed and need to be built on a fast schedule in order to replace the vulnerable SR 520 floating bridge by the end of 2014. Previous pontoon construction projects, like the Hood Canal Bridge, help inform our work, but each bridge design is different and presents a different set of challenges.
This work helps us address possible challenges and avoid delays by:
- Testing mix designs for strength and durability. We are testing several different concrete mixes and types of aggregates to ensure the materials are watertight, resistant to cracking, and the new SR 520 bridge pontoons will be durable.
- Testing forming methods for efficiency. We are testing several different forming and pouring methods to help us identify a preferred system that is efficient and constructible.
- Expediting pontoon construction. We will identify preapproved mix designs and forming methods so that the pontoon contractor is able to begin pontoon production as quickly as possible.
Key dates
- April/May 2009: Identify the testing location.
- August 2009: Advertise the testing effort to contractors.
- August 2009: WSDOT awards project to Quigg Bros. Inc.
- September 2009 to February 2010: Project under way.
- February 2010: Testing efforts are complete; publish findings.
- Ongoing: Public involvement.
Contact:
WSDOT Aberdeen Project Office
Scott Ireland, Project Engineer
4801 Olympic Highway
Aberdeen, WA 98520
Phone: 360-533-9352