February 5, 2020 ITS Money: Van Komurka, P.E., D.GE, F.ASCE

Van Komurka, P.E., D. GE, F. ASCE | GRL Engineers, Inc.

Cost Benefits of Bi-Directional Load Testing Significant cost and construction benefits were obtained from performing a bi-directional static load test prior to construction on the Russell Street Bridge project in Montana. Benefits from the test included:

1) Reducing shaft lengths by using a higher LRFD resistance factor as a test was performed.

2) Using test-determined unit shaft resistances to evaluate and accept two production shafts that may have otherwise required remediation.

3) Providing increased presumptive unit resistance values in the gravel/cobble/boulder deposits.