Alternate Bids for Bridge Deck Repair

The 45 yr old Smith Street Bridge (also known as the Bausch Memorial Bridge) over the Genesee River in Rochester, N.Y., is scheduled for rehabilitation. The extended period of exposure to the elements and to deicing chemicals has caused serious deterioration to parts of the concrete deck and steel superstructure. The granite block wearing course system limits inspection of the top of the deck slab. Initial estimates resulting from observations of the underside of the slab indicate removal of about 40%. Rules of thumb regarding breakpoint for total versus partial removal are unacceptable due to the magnitude of the projected cost differential. Decision is reached to prepare three alternate methods of deck rehabilitation including total replacement and two repair procedures. Engineers estimate prepared recognizing the influence of alternate procedures on costs of all rehabilitation work in the contract. Alternate bids received give owner complete range of costs upon which to base economically sound decision.