Complex Bridge Replacement on an Accelerated Schedule

Abstract:

The Edens Spur is a three miles expressway corridor connecting I-294 to I-94 in Northbrook, Illinois part of the Illinois Tollway System. Ciorba Group led a team of engineering and environmental consultants to complete the design for the reconstruction and widening of the Edens Spur, which included the replacement of eleven mainline bridges and one crossover bridge. Many of these bridges have complex geometry and required design considerations to fit site constraints including high skews, superelevated bridges on curved alignments and deep foundations. The project goal was to modernize this vital part of the Tollway system that was original built in the 50's.

In this presentation Mr. Di Bernardo will discuss the overall approach to the design of this $100 Million expressway improvement and will highlight the main challenges related to the design of the bridges part of this improvement. The design was completed under an accelerated design schedule of nine months and was broken down in two separate construction contracts. The project is currently under construction. The presentation will be focused on the structural aspects of the project and will also provide the designer insight on Project Management aspects, constructability issues and will stress the importance of coordination of different disciplines that are involved in an infrastructure improvement of this magnitude.

Biography

Salvatore Di Bernardo has over 27 years of experience in concept study, design and construction management for bridges and other transportation related structures including several award winning and signature bridge projects. His structural design experience includes cable-stayed structures, truss bridges, arch bridges, pre-stressed and post-tensioned concrete and steel bridges, long span plate girder, curved steel plate girder, complex retaining walls, and complex erection plans. During his career in the United States and in Europe he has presented research related to his work on signature bridges, bridge asset management and advanced structural analysis of complex bridges at various national and international conferences. Salvatore's experience with bridges include Program Management for bridge inspection and asset management for governmental agencies. Mr. Di Bernardo is actively involved in national and international professional organizations, a Past President and Board of Director member of the Structural Engineers Association of Illinois and a member of the State of Illinois Structural Engineering Licensing Board. He has been involved with the Design- Build Committee of the Illinois Road and Transportation Builder Association and other technical commissions. He is a fellow member of the International Association of Bridge and Structural Engineers. He is licensed in various US States, the UK and Italy.