Current ICT Project
Investigators:
  Scott M. Olson (Primary), James H. Long
Project Title:
  Modification of IDOT Integral Abutment Design Limitations and Details
Start Date: 1/1/2007
End Date: 3/31/2009
Summary of Project:
  Integral abutment bridges (IAB) are generally easier to construct, cost less, and require less maintenance that similar bridges with joints. Accordingly, several highway departments, including the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT), are increasingly using IABs. However, the guidelines and limitations that apply to IABs have several gaps and grey areas, and IDOT feels that they warrant further investigation. To this end, ICT is developing and documenting rational guidelines and limitations for IABs as well as construction and monitoring plans for instrumenting existing and/or planned IABs. These guidelines will allow IDOT to better understand and construct IABs, and the end results could include a smoother roadway ride, reduced construction, and lower repair costs.
Objective of Project:
  The overall objective of this study is to develop and document rational guidelines and limitations for Integral Abutment Bridges (IABs). We will also develop construction and monitoring plans for instrumenting existing and/or planned IABs as part of this project; but the project scope does not include procuring, installing, or monitoring instruments at any bridges.
Expected Outcome:
  The proposed work will potentially benefit the Illinois Department of Transportation by expanding (and better understanding) the current limitations and benefits of IABs. A more rational design approach would allow pile and soil modifications to meet the demands of an IAB for conditions in which they currently may not be considered. The end users would be the traveling public who would experience a smoother roadway ride, district construction and maintenance who benefit in reduced construction and repair costs, and structure designers who would have better understanding and improved guidance on what sites or treatments are necessary to utilize an IAB.
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Last Updated: 11/18/2009