Submitted by Peter Narsavage on Sun, 03/29/2009 - 2:48pm
Replacement of the Ohio Turnpike Bridges Over the Cuyahoga Valley, 2004
Owner: Ohio Turnpike Commission
Location: Boston Township, Summit County
Nominated by: Anthony D. Yacobucci, P.E., HNTB Corporation
Description: The Ohio Turnpike Bridges over the Cuyahoga Valley were replaced as part of a third-lane widening program. Bridge type and material studies led to the design of steel and post-tensioned concrete alternatives that were considered most economical. Both designs were bid. The concrete alternate was the low bit resulting an a project savings of more than $1.4 million. The new bridges are the highest and longest on the Turnpike system. Sensitive areas below the structures include the Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio and Erie Canal, and Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad. To maximize savings in steel and concrete each hollow pier was individually designed, and both spread and steel pile foundations were used because of the varying soil conditions across the valley. Girders were pre-tensioned for handling and the spans were post-tensioned prior to placement of the deck. Challenges included protection of sensitive wetlands, traffic maintenance, air and noise mitigation.
