Rehabilitation of the historic Ship Canal Bridge, and the Lakeview Viaduct that carry approximately 2 miles of I-5 through downtown Seattle is a daunting challenge. Interstate 5 in Seattle is a high-traffic volume highway and difficult to access for construction. In addition, the neighborhoods adjacent to I-5 are sensitive to noise. The construction work is required to minimize traffic disruptions, noise decibel levels and be performed in strictly controlled work hours. The work consists of; 1. Replacing the existing bridge deck overlays with new ones that are 2nd generation overlays requiring a modified construction approach. The total deck area is 23 acres. 2. Replacement of expansion joints. 3. Complete replacement of the Ship Canal Bridge drainage system from the deck to the ground. The existing drainage is obsolete for the present and future forecasted precipitation. 4. Repair of the underside of the deck haunches of the Ship Canal Bridge to prevent chunks of concrete falling on to properties and roadways below. The goal of this presentation is to showcase the project's approach to accomplishing the work by stretching available technologies and materials while addressing restrictions.
Second Generation Bridge Deck Overlays
State of the Industry