A partially filled concrete grid bridge deck was selected as a major component of the solution for the lightweight superstructure replacement on I-895 over Patapsco River Flats for the Maryland Transportation Authority (MDTA).

Due to the limited load capacity of the substructure and the desire to maintain an HS-20 design live load, Rummel, Klepper & Kahl, LLP specified a deck weight not to exceed 50 pounds per square foot utilizing 4500 psi, 100 pcf all lightweight concrete while still providing a 2” integral concrete overfill.

Although accelerated bridge construction (ABC) was not a requirement for this project, grid reinforced concrete decks have long been utilized by toll agencies to accelerate the speed of construction.  McLean Contracting Company is expected to wrap up construction in 2019.

The entire article can be found on the Roads & Bridges website by clicking here.