BNSF RAILWAY BRIDGE 69.0 71.3 REPLACEMENT - IN-LINE TO OFF-LINE DESIGN CONSTRUCTION CHALLENGES - QUENEMO, KS

摘要

When a project is initiated, one can expect to encounter challenges - that is a given. This was the case for BNSF bridges 69.0 and 71.3 in neighboring Franklin and Osage Counties in Kansas. Bridge 69.0 is a single 200' pin-connected through truss that carries double main tracks and the new structure consists of deck plate girder and precast concrete double box beam spans totaling 317'-3". The existing Bridge 71.3 consists of seven spans combination of precast concrete, steel and 150' truss spans for a total of 269'-6" between bulkheads. The new Bridge 71.3 has four spans of deck plate girders for a total length of 291'-3" between abutments. Due largely to record train volumes a redesign was requested. Project challenges included re-survey and design of structural, track, and site civil, re-permitting, ROW acquisition, re-evaluating construction cost bid items and changing overall scope of construction, engineering, and owner involvement. This presentation will detail numerous challenges encountered and lessons learned including: 1) Details on the in-line change out to off-line construction 2) Adaptability of all parties involved to overcome issues 3) Working safely within time/work constraints around train traffic and Owner Schedule 4) Take away - Lessons learned from this unique scenario and expectations on similar future bridge replacement projects. Working through these challenges has been key to maintaining safety, quality, budget, schedule, and the overall success of the project.