Project
Finley Engineering Group, Inc. (Finley) was retained to design the superstructure bridge for the Segment K, I-49 extension project from I-220 to MLK Boulevard. The USD 171 million project required Finley to design three precast segmental bridges with span lengths from 120 to 260 feet, including 700 segments with varying widths ranging from 31.5 to 52 feet, and featuring external post-tensioning. To streamline precast segment production and accommodate the wide variation in segment widths, Finley needed powerful and interoperable BrIM software to create cross-sections of the three bridges simultaneously.
Solution
Finley used the post-tension analysis and cross-section generation capabilities of Bentley RM Bridge to design the three bridges concurrently, developing a single segment core that could accommodate the wide variation in segment widths. Using Bentley MicroStation to seamlessly share design information between two design firms, and RM Bridge to streamline precast segment production, Finley optimized segment casting for the entire project.
Outcome
Integrating Bentley’s RM Bridge with MicroStation allowed for rapid modeling and efficient coordination enabling Finley to design the three precast bridges simultaneously in less than one year. Finley used Bentley’s collaborative modeling solutions to optimize segment casting, meet the project deadline, and facilitate electronic submissions, reducing project costs with only one final hardcopy delivery of all the related drawings. The flexibility of precast segmental design and construction allowed for minimal footprint in wetland areas, minimizing environmental impact. The new bridge is part of a 30-mile, eight year Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (LADOTD) project to improve roadways, ramps, and sound walls along the I-49 corridor.
Software
Using Bentley software, Finley optimized design and accelerated information sharing to meet the aggressive project deadline. The rapid modeling, post-tension analysis, and cross-section generation capabilities of RM Bridge enabled Finley to develop a single segment core that could accommodate the varying bridge segment widths, facilitating the superstructure design of three bridges simultaneously. All roadway and structural drawings were coordinated using MicroStation performance files for seamless data sharing between two design firms. The interoperability of Bentley software helped the team to automate and streamline the entire design process.