2020 TEN-YEAR RENEWAL AND REPLACEMENT PLAN - NARRATIVE SUMMARY
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2020 TEN–YEAR RENEWAL AND REPLACEMENT PLAN NARRATIVE SUMMARY Prepared For: Rhode Island Turnpike and Bridge Authority Jamestown, Rhode Island Prepared By: HNTB Corporation Boston, Massachusetts June 13, 2019
TABLE OF CONTENTS INTRODUCTION ...................................................................................................................................... 1 History ................................................................................................................................................ 1 Authority Composition ....................................................................................................................... 2 Ten-Year Renewal and Replacement Plan.......................................................................................... 2 Summary of Planned Work................................................................................................................. 4 Newport Pell Bridge................................................................................................................................ 5 Item 1: Future Repairs/Minor Rehabilitation On-Call Contract ......................................................... 6 Item 2: Miscellaneous Maintenance and Repairs .............................................................................. 6 Item 3: Development and Maintaining of Asset Management Program ........................................... 7 Item 4: Load Rating Update ................................................................................................................ 7 Item 5: Restriping ............................................................................................................................... 8 Item 6: Deck Sealing ........................................................................................................................... 8 Item 7: Deck Partial Depth Rehabilitation (Hydrodemolition) ........................................................... 8 Item 8: Deck Patching ......................................................................................................................... 9 Item 9: Deck Expansion Joint and Header Repairs ............................................................................. 9 Item 10: Deck Evaluation Study ........................................................................................................ 10 Item 11: Median Barrier Maintenance ............................................................................................. 10 Item 12: Realignment of West Approach Roadway ......................................................................... 11 Item 13: Removal of Loose Stringer Haunches (Combine with Appropriate Contracts).................. 11 Item 14: Steel Superstructure Repairs/Retrofits (Suspended Spans) .............................................. 12 Item 15: Painting of Steel Superstructure (Suspended Spans) ........................................................ 12 Item 16: Main Cable Unwrapping, Repair and Dehumidification .................................................... 12 Item 17: Prestressed Concrete Girder Repairs ................................................................................. 13 Item 18: Rocker Bearing Repairs / Resetting (Deck Truss and Girder Spans) .................................. 14 Item 19: Bearing Replacements (Deck Truss and Girder Spans) ...................................................... 14 Item 20: Pier Concrete Repairs ......................................................................................................... 14 Item 21: Underwater Pier Repairs .................................................................................................... 15 Item 22: West Protection Cell Repairs ............................................................................................. 15
Item 23: Security Features - Cameras and ATMS ............................................................................. 15 Item 24: Electrical Equipment / Electrical Upgrade ......................................................................... 16 Item 25: Access Improvement .......................................................................................................... 16 Item 26: Tower Elevators Replacement / Upgrade .......................................................................... 17 Item 27: West Approach Curb Replacement .................................................................................... 17 Mount Hope Bridge .............................................................................................................................. 18 Item 1: Future Repairs / Minor Rehabilitation On-Call Contract...................................................... 18 Item 2: Miscellaneous Maintenance and Repairs ............................................................................ 19 Item 3: Development and Maintaining of Asset Management Program ......................................... 20 Item 4: Load Rating Update .............................................................................................................. 20 Item 5: Restriping ............................................................................................................................. 20 Item 6: Deck and Miscellaneous Concrete Repairs .......................................................................... 20 Item 7: Wearing Surface Replacement including Deck Concrete Infill Repairs ................................ 21 Item 8: Main Cable Rehabilitation and Dehumidification, and New Anchorage Dehumidification System .............................................................................................................................................. 22 Item 9: Suspended Spans Miscellaneous Steel Repair ..................................................................... 23 Item 10: Main Cable and Suspender Rope Painting / Cable Band Caulking ..................................... 23 Item 11: Tower and North Approach Bent Painting ......................................................................... 24 Item 12: Security Features - Cameras and ATMS ............................................................................. 24 Item 13: Electrical Equipment / Electrical Upgrade ......................................................................... 24 Item 14: Access Improvement .......................................................................................................... 24 Item 15: North Anchorage and Staging Area Fence ......................................................................... 25 Sakonnet River Bridge .......................................................................................................................... 26 Item 1: Future Repairs / Minor Rehabilitation On-Call Contract...................................................... 27 Item 2: Miscellaneous Maintenance and Repairs ............................................................................ 27 Item 3: Development and Maintaining of Asset Management Program ......................................... 27 Item 4: Load Rating Update .............................................................................................................. 28 Item 5: Restriping ............................................................................................................................. 28 Item 6: Wearing Surface and Approach Pavement Crack Sealing .................................................... 28 Item 7: Concrete Deck Repairs ......................................................................................................... 28 Item 8: Concrete Barrier/Parapet Repairs and Sealing .................................................................... 29 Item 9: Security Features – Cameras and ATMS .............................................................................. 30 Item 10: Electrical Equipment/Electrical Upgrade ........................................................................... 30 Item 11: MSE Walls Maintenance .................................................................................................... 31 Item 12: Anode Replacement for Piles ............................................................................................. 31 Item 13: Access Improvement .......................................................................................................... 32
Item 14: Weather Station ................................................................................................................. 32 Item 15: Boat Ramp Maintenance ................................................................................................... 32 Item 16: Detention/Retention Basin Cleaning/Disposal .................................................................. 33 Item 17: Bike Path Repaving ............................................................................................................. 33 Item 18: Parking Lots Repaving ........................................................................................................ 33 Item 19: Fence on Portsmouth Side ................................................................................................. 33 Jamestown Verrazzano Bridge ............................................................................................................. 34 Item 1: Future Repairs / Minor Rehabilitation On-Call Contract...................................................... 35 Item 2: Miscellaneous Maintenance and Repairs ............................................................................ 35 Item 3: Development and Maintaining of Asset Management Program ......................................... 36 Item 4: Load Rating Update .............................................................................................................. 36 Item 5: Restriping ............................................................................................................................. 36 Item 6: Concrete Wearing Surface Sealing ....................................................................................... 36 Item 7: Concrete Wearing Surface Repairs/Patching ....................................................................... 37 Item 8: Deck Expansion Joint Repair/Replacement (Main Structure) .............................................. 37 Item 9: Deck Expansion Joint Repair/Replacement (Trestle Structure) ........................................... 38 Item 10: Wearing Surface and Deck Monitoring Study .................................................................... 38 Item 11: Concrete Wearing Surface Replacement ........................................................................... 38 Item 12: Bridge and Pedestrian Railings Painting and Repairs ......................................................... 39 Item 13: Post-Tensioned Concrete Box Girder Profile Geometric Survey (Main Structure) ............ 39 Item 14: Post-Tensioned Concrete Box Girder Repairs (Main Structure) ........................................ 40 Item 15: Prestressed Concrete Girder Repairs (Trestle Structure) .................................................. 40 Item 16: Bearing Pad and Plinth Concrete Repairs (Main Structure) ............................................... 40 Item 17: Pier/Bent Concrete Repairs................................................................................................ 41 Item 18: Pier Protective Granite Panels Repairs .............................................................................. 41 Item 19: Pile Repairs and Anode Replacement (Main Structure) .................................................... 41 Item 20: Scour Remediation Study ................................................................................................... 42 Item 21: Security Features – Cameras and ATMS ............................................................................ 42 Item 22: Electrical Equipment / Electrical Upgrade ......................................................................... 42 Item 23: Signs ................................................................................................................................... 42 Item 24: Access Improvement (Main Structure) .............................................................................. 43 Item 25: West Abutment Area of Original Jamestown Bridge ......................................................... 43 Minor Bridges ....................................................................................................................................... 44 Item 1: Future Repairs / Minor Rehabilitation On-Call Contract...................................................... 45 Item 2: Development and Maintaining of Asset Management Program ......................................... 45 Items 3 through 7: Load Rating Update ........................................................................................... 45
Item 8: Structure "E" Replacement .................................................................................................. 46 Item 9: North Main Road Bridges Girder and Abutment Concrete Repairs ..................................... 46 Item 10: Jamestown Arches Concrete Repairs ................................................................................. 47 Item 11: Hummocks Avenue Bridge Concrete Repairs .................................................................... 47 RI 138 Connector Highway ................................................................................................................... 48 Item 1: Miscellaneous Maintenance and Repairs ............................................................................ 48 Item 2: Development of Asset Management Program .................................................................... 49 Item 3: Security Features – Cameras and ATMS .............................................................................. 49 Item 4: Restriping RI 138 .................................................................................................................. 49 Item 5: Pavement Crack Sealing RI 138 and Frontage Roads ........................................................... 50 Item 6: Milling/Paving/ Drainage Repairs RI 138 from RI 1A to Jamestown Verrazzano Bridge ..... 50 Item 7: Guardrail Replacement and Landscaping ............................................................................ 51 Item 8: Signage ................................................................................................................................. 51 Item 9: Detention Basin, Pump Station and Associated Pipes Cleaning/Disposal ........................... 51 Facilities ................................................................................................................................................ 52 Item 1: Miscellaneous Maintenance and Repairs ............................................................................ 52 Item 2: Development and Maintaining of Asset Management Program ......................................... 53 Item 3: Jamestown Administration Building - Exterior Painting, Paving Repairs, HVAC Repairs, etc. .......................................................................................................................................................... 53 Item 4: Jamestown Administration Building – Rehabilitation/Expansion ........................................ 53 Item 5: Jamestown Maintenance Building Upgrades ....................................................................... 54 Item 6: Jamestown Toll Plaza Tunnel Maintenance and Repairs ..................................................... 54 Item 7: Jamestown Toll Plaza Upgrades ........................................................................................... 54 Item 8: Jamestown Stormwater Pump Station Building - Miscellaneous Repairs ........................... 55 Item 9: Dock under Newport Pell Bridge.......................................................................................... 55 Item 10: Bristol Historic Administration Building Renovation (Mount Hope House) ...................... 56 Item 11: Repaving Mount Hope House Parking Lot ......................................................................... 56 Item 12: Temporary Storage Building under Mount Hope Bridge (Bristol) ..................................... 56 Item 13: East Bay Maintenance Facility............................................................................................ 57 Item 14: Sakonnet Pre-Engineered Metal Storage Building (Upper Road Area).............................. 57 Potential Future Assets ........................................................................................................................ 58 Appendix A: Ten-Year Renewal and Replacement Plan Work Item Listings ........................................ 59
INTRODUCTION
INTRODUCTION
The Rhode Island Turnpike and Bridge Authority (RITBA) currently owns/controls,
operates and maintains the Newport Pell, Mount Hope, Jamestown Verrazzano and
Sakonnet River Bridges as well as ten other minor bridges. Additionally, RITBA
owns/controls, operates and maintains Rhode Island Route (RI) 138 from Route 1A in
North Kingstown to the Newport Pell Bridge in Jamestown, the Jamestown toll plaza and
various facilities.
History
The Rhode Island Turnpike and Bridge Authority was established in 1954 by the Rhode
Island General Assembly as a corporate and politic body with the power to acquire,
construct, maintain and operate bridge projects. According to Section 3 of Rhode Island
Public Law Chapter 3390, the Authority was created to facilitate vehicular traffic, remove
many of the present handicaps and hazards on the congested highways in the state,
alleviate the barriers caused by large bodies of water, and promote the agricultural and
industrial development of the state.
In 1963, Public Law Chapter 165 amended Title 24, Chapter 12 to dissolve the Jamestown
Bridge Commission and Mount Hope Bridge Authority. Under this amendment, ownership
of the original Jamestown Bridge (1940-1992) between North Kingstown and Jamestown
was transferred to the State of Rhode Island and ownership of the Mount Hope Bridge
between Portsmouth and Bristol was transferred to RITBA. The Rhode Island Turnpike
and Bridge Authority was responsible for the construction of the Newport Bridge (renamed
the Claiborne Pell Bridge in 1992 and commonly referred to as the Newport Pell Bridge)
between Jamestown and Newport, which opened to traffic on June 28, 1969.
In 2013, the Rhode Island General Assembly amended Title 24, Chapter 12 to allow RITBA
to take control of the Sakonnet River Bridge and the Jamestown Verrazzano Bridge from
the State of Rhode Island. Along with the Sakonnet River Bridge, two adjacent minor
bridges, a maintenance facility, a bike path, storm drainage systems, roadway lighting and
other related components were transferred to RITBA’s jurisdiction. Portions of RI 138 from
the west abutment of the Jamestown Verrazzano Bridge to the Route 1A interchange in
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INTRODUCTION
North Kingstown and from the east abutment of the Jamestown Verrazzano Bridge to the
Jamestown toll plaza were also transferred to RITBA. This combined 2.7 mile long segment
of RI 138, referred to herein as the RI 138 Connector Highway, includes seven minor
bridges, a stormwater pump station, roadway lighting, landscaping and an extensive storm
drainage system.
The 2014 Rhode Island General Assembly passed Article 21 of the Fiscal Year (FY) 2015
Appropriations Act. Under this Act, 3.5-cents of the gasoline tax was allocated to RITBA
starting in FY 2015 for use on maintenance, operations, capital expenditures and debt
service. This allocation is in lieu of tolling the Sakonnet River Bridge, which was originally
authorized by the 2012 Rhode Island General Assembly and reconsidered after public
debate over the tolling.
Authority Composition
RITBA is overseen by a Board of Directors and has no stockholders or equity holders. The
Board of Directors consists of five members including four members appointed by the
Governor on four-year terms as well as the Director of the Rhode Island Department of
Transportation (RIDOT) who is a member ex-officio. The Board of Directors elect a
chairman and vice-chairman amongst their ranks. RITBA’s Chief Financial Officer (CFO)
serves as treasurer and RITBA’s Executive Director serves as secretary.
Ten-Year Renewal and Replacement Plan
RITBA has historically developed a Ten-Year Renewal and Replacement plan (10-Year
Plan) for their long-term physical assets – bridges, roadways and facilities. The 10-Year
Plan is updated annually and includes the planned capital improvements with associated
estimates of construction, engineering, maintenance and inspection costs. The items
identified in the 10-Year Plan for the bridges are based on existing conditions documented
in the latest inspection reports as well as discussions with RITBA staff and engineering
consultant firms under contract with RITBA. All bridges were inspected by an engineering
consultant firm in accordance with Federal Highway Administration’s (FHWA) National
Bridge Inspection Standards (NBIS), which mandates a routine biennial inspection. In
addition to the routine biennial inspections, RITBA sanctions supplemental inspections on
a case-by-case basis based on existing conditions or structure complexity. Bridge
inspections entail the visual inspection of the entire structure, as well as a hands-on
inspection of all Fracture Critical Members (tension members whose failure would result in
partial or total collapse of a span or structure).
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INTRODUCTION
At the time of this 10-Year Plan update, the following bridge inspection reports were
provided by RITBA and utilized in the development of the anticipated work items:
NEWPORT PELL BRIDGE – 2018 Biennial Inspection Report (Suspension Spans)
prepared by WSP USA Corporation (WSP), 2017 Biennial Inspection Report
(Approach Spans) prepared by Modjeski and Masters, Inc., and 2017 Underwater
Inspection Report prepared by Collins Engineers, Inc.
MOUNT HOPE BRIDGE – 2018 Biennial and Fracture Critical Inspection Report
prepared by Modjeski and Masters, Inc., 2018 Catwalk Survey Memorandum
prepared by Modjeski and Masters, Inc., 2017 Special Inspection Report prepared by
WSP, 2016 Main Cable Inspection and Evaluation Report prepared by Ammann and
Whitney (now Louis Berger/WSP) and 2016 Underwater Inspection Report prepared
by Collins Engineers, Inc.
SAKONNET RIVER BRIDGE – 2018 Biennial Inspection Report prepared by HAKS
Engineers, P.C. (now ATANE Engineers, P.C.) and 2016 Underwater Inspection
Report prepared by Collins Engineers, Inc.
JAMESTOWN VERRAZZANO BRIDGE – 2017 Biennial Inspection Report prepared by
WSP and 2016 Underwater Inspection Report prepared by Collins Engineers, Inc.
RI 138 OVER FISHING PIER ACCESS ROAD IN NORTH KINGSTOWN – 2018 Biennial
Inspection Report prepared by HAKS Engineers, P.C. (now ATANE Engineers, P.C.).
RI 138 OVER NORTH MAIN ROAD IN JAMESTOWN (2 BRIDGES) – 2018 Biennial
Inspection Report prepared by Steere Engineering, Inc.
RI 138 OVER WILDLIFE PASSAGE IN JAMESTOWN (4 BRIDGES) – 2018 Biennial
Inspection Report prepared by HAKS Engineers, P.C. (now ATANE Engineers, P.C.).
RI 138 OVER EAST SHORE ROAD (STRUCTURE “E”) IN JAMESTOWN – 2017 Biennial
Inspection Report prepared by Modjeski and Masters, Inc. (included within the
Newport Pell Biennial Inspection Report).
RI 24/138 OVER HUMMOCKS AVENUE IN PORTSMOUTH – 2017 (final) and 2019
(draft) Biennial Inspection Reports prepared by ATANE Engineers, P.C.
RI 24/138 OVER EVANS AVENUE IN TIVERTON – 2018 Biennial Inspection Report
prepared by HAKS Engineers, P.C. (now ATANE Engineers, P.C.).
Additionally, the 2016 In-depth Highway Inspection Report by WSP was available and used
in developing the anticipated work items for the RI 138 Connector Highway.
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INTRODUCTION
Summary of Planned Work
The 10-Year Plan includes a total investment
over the next 10 years of approximately $230
million. Item lists are provided in the
Appendix in which this investment is organized
into seven major categories. The investments
for each category are as follows:
Newport Pell Bridge: $122M
Mount Hope Bridge: $ 48M
Jamestown Verrazzano Bridge: $ 32M
Facilities: $ 10M
Sakonnet River Bridge: $ 8M
Minor Bridges: $ 5M
RI 138 Connector Highway: $ 5M
As shown above and in the adjacent chart,
work at the two structurally significant
suspension bridges comprise the majority of the planned investments included in the 10-
Year Plan. Approximately 74% of the anticipated expenditures are for the Newport Pell and
Mount Hope Bridges, which is expected given the complexity, size and age of these
structures.
The Jamestown Verrazzano Bridge represents 14% of the anticipated cost in this ten-year
period, which is reasonable since it’s the second longest bridge in RITBA’s inventory. The
Sakonnet River Bridge, minor bridges, RI 138 Connector Highway and the various facilities
comprise approximately 12% of the total cost of anticipated work.
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NEWPORT PELL BRIDGE
NEWPORT PELL BRIDGE
The Newport Pell Bridge opened to traffic on June
28, 1969 and carries RI 138 over the East Passage of
Narragansett Bay between the town of Jamestown on
Conanicut Island and city of Newport on Aquidneck
Island. The bridge also spans over Bay View Drive in
Jamestown. This 55-span bridge has a total structure
length of 11,248 feet, which includes 3 steel
suspension spans, 11 steel deck truss approach spans,
18 steel floor system (girder-floorbeam-stringer)
approach spans, 3 multi steel beam approach spans
and 20 multi AASHTO Type IV prestressed concrete
girder approach spans. The main suspension span is
1,600 feet long and the two side suspension spans are
687 feet each, making it the longest suspension span
bridge in New England and 87th in the world. The
steel towers extend over 400 feet above the water.
Structures included:
Newport Pell Bridge Steel suspension bridge for 3 spans, steel deck truss for 11
spans, steel floor system for 18 spans, multi steel beam for 3
spans and multi AASHTO Type IV prestressed concrete girder
for 20 spans (11,248 feet total length)
As shown in the above chart, bridge deck repair and maintenance account for roughly 41%
of the anticipated expenditures over this ten-year period. The extensive repairs are needed
because of the age of the deck, which is from the original construction of the bridge.
Approximately 16% of anticipated costs are for the suspension main cable unwrapping,
repair and dehumidification, which aid in the preservation of the structural integrity of the
wire strands. The main cables serve as the primary structural load path in the suspended
spans and are amongst the most vital components on the bridge.
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Item 1: Future Repairs/Minor Rehabilitation On-Call
Contract
This item reflects an on-going, smaller scale repair program to address items identified
during bridge inspections that should not wait until a larger repair program can be
initiated. This item also includes smaller scale studies and testing programs which provides
information to RITBA for use when developing and prioritizing larger repair/rehabilitation
programs.
Examples of repairs, as recommended in the 2017 (approach spans) and 2018 (main spans)
Biennial Inspection Reports, which could be performed under this item include:
• Perform a detailed assessment of each of the suspender rope socket stiffeners at
each panel point in order to track deterioration and develop a prioritization order
for future replacement.
• Repair all truss members and bracing members that exhibit significant section loss,
areas of cracking, through holes, or severely corroded fasteners within the east and
west deck truss spans as required to provide full design load carrying capacity.
• Repair all floorbeam and stringer webs, flanges, stiffeners, and connection plates,
and other floor system elements that exhibit cracks, through holes, or significant
section loss within the west approach spans as required to provide full design load
carrying capacity. An analysis should be performed to determine the threshold for
which repairs are warranted in the areas of section loss found throughout the floor
system.
Item 2: Miscellaneous Maintenance and Repairs
This item includes maintenance projects that are not covered in the specific items below.
These projects are beyond the scope of routine maintenance tasks. Examples of repairs, as
recommended in the 2017 (approach spans) and 2018 (main spans) Biennial Inspection
Reports, which could be performed under this item include:
• Repair the numerous railing spindles and rail posts noted with corrosion holes.
Consideration should be given to developing a programmed replacement of the
deficient railing spindles and posts.
• Repair the dehumidifier pedestals and in the process, increase the gap between the
pedestal and underside of the dehumidifier.
• Install caulking at the split collars on the stiffening truss top chords to prevent
water from leaking onto the socket area below.
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Additionally, RITBA plans to internally manage and perform selected weld repairs/upgrades
on the bridge in 2019-2020. RITBA took a similar approach regarding the selected
repainting program on the bridge in 2018. This repainting program consisted of RITBA
maintenance staff overseeing internally hired union painters to address areas of a failed
paint system.
Item 3: Development and Maintaining of Asset
Management Program
RITBA has embarked on developing an agency wide asset management program to ensure
efficient maintenance of all RITBA owned/controlled bridges, roadways and facilities. An
effective asset management program prioritizes essential maintenance, repairs and
rehabilitation to prolong the state of good repair of the assets and minimizes unexpected
larger restoration/rehabilitation projects. The program began in 2015 with a data gathering
effort on the Newport Pell Bridge using Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) scanning
technology and a pilot program for RITBA’s landscaping work. RITBA intends to expand
this program incrementally one asset at a time until all assets under RITBA’s jurisdiction
are cataloged.
Item 4: Load Rating Update
A load rating is an analysis of the existing bridge that informs RITBA of the structure’s
current load-carrying capacity. The rating analysis provides the overall controlling capacity
for the bridge as well as the rating of each individual structural element (deck, stringers,
floorbeams, truss members, suspender cables, etc.). RITBA anticipates updating the load
rating of the bridge every ten years or as required based on structure modifications
(structure widening, structural repairs, etc.), change in loading (updated live load vehicles;
increased superimposed dead loads such as overlay pavement, added access platforms,
added utilities, etc.) and/or change in condition (e.g. section loss or deterioration of
primary structural members). Information gathered during the routine biennial
inspections as well as supplemental special/targeted inspections are used to develop the
existing conditions of the structural elements. Load ratings are an important resource
when prioritizing repair projects since they identify structural members that have a below
statutory load-carrying capacity. A load rating update is anticipated to be completed in
2019. Estimated costs for another update are included at the end of this ten-year period.
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PAGE 7 OF 59NEWPORT PELL BRIDGE
Item 5: Restriping
Roadway lane striping generally needs to be renewed every five years. All restriping
projects are contracted out since RITBA does not own the equipment to remove and apply
lane striping.
Item 6: Deck Sealing
The top surface of the exposed bridge deck exhibits constant deterioration due to vehicular
wear and exposure to water and deicing salt. During the winter months, cracks in the top of
the deck allow water intrusion into the deck which freezes and thaws (referred to as freeze-
thaw action) with temperature fluctuation and can lead to damage/deterioration (advanced
cracking, delaminations, spalls) of the deck. Additionally, the chloride ions in the deicing
salt can migrate further into the concrete deck through micro cracks. Eventually the
chloride ions reach the level of the steel reinforcement in the bridge deck and initiate steel
corrosion, particularly when combined with water. The steel reinforcement expands due to
the corrosion causing further cracking in the deck and deeper chloride ion penetration,
which may lead to delamination and spalling.
Bridge deck sealing prevents chloride ions and water from entering the concrete. The
Newport Pell Bridge deck has been sealed several times since the late 1980s with the last
application occurring in 2012. The bridge deck should be cleaned and resealed every five to
seven years to maintain this important protection. The next scheduled application is 2021-
2022 after the deck rehabilitation described in Item 7.
Item 7: Deck Partial Depth Rehabilitation (Hydrodemolition)
As detailed in Item 6, the top of the exposed bridge deck deteriorates due to vehicular wear
and exposure to water and deicing salt. Partial depth rehabilitation removes the top 2” to
3½” of deteriorated concrete deck using high-pressure water to expose the top layer of
steel reinforcement. The process removes the unsound, chloride contaminated concrete
providing a suitable bonding surface to receive the new concrete. This method of repair is
only suitable when the chloride contamination is limited to the top few inches of the deck.
If high chloride levels are present at deeper depths into the deck, a more extensive full
depth repair/replacement of the deck is typically warranted.
In 2000, 800 feet of the west approach deck underwent partial depth rehabilitation.
Current contract 19-3 anticipates 4,500 feet of the east approach deck to be repaired
between 2019 and 2021. Further deck rehabilitation is anticipated between 2024 and 2026.
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Item 8: Deck Patching
Patch type repair of surface deficiencies in the top of the concrete bridge deck is an ongoing
annual program which maintains a safe driving surface and prolongs the service life of the
deck. The program includes the repair of visually apparent deficiencies (primarily surface
spalls) as well as a proactive sounding (hammer tapping or chain drag methods) to identify
and repair delaminations or incipient spalls. This annual program, along with the sealing
of the bridge deck as described in Item 6, has been instrumental in preserving the concrete
and extending the service life of the deck.
Photo 1 – Spalls and Previous Repairs in the Top of the Bridge Deck in the East Approach Spans
Item 9: Deck Expansion Joint and Header Repairs
Bridge deck expansion joints allow temperature related movements (expansion,
contraction) of the superstructure. Deck joints allow each adjacent superstructure unit to
expand with temperature rise and contract with falling temperatures. The Newport Pell
Bridge has a variety of expansion joint types depending on the anticipated superstructure
movement at each deck joint location. The longer suspension and truss spans have steel
finger joints, which accommodate several inches of movement. The shorter floor system,
prestressed concrete girder and beam spans use asphaltic plug, compression seal and strip
seal deck joints, which facilitate an inch or so of movement.
The steel expansion joint armor and surrounding concrete header exhibits significant wear
from the passing vehicles, particularly large trucks. Unevenness across the deck joints
allows for plow damage to the joint armor (scrapes, gouges) and header (break-up,
spalling). Uneven deck joints are also a source of vibration and noise that affect the
rideability and comfort of the motorists. The deck joints of the approach spans exhibit
isolated areas with missing portions, bulging and tears in the joint seal.
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This item includes joint armor repairs, partial/full depth joint header repairs,
repair/replacement of joint seals and repair of the drainage troughs underneath the finger
joints. The repair of the deck joints is anticipated between 2021 and 2024.
Item 10: Deck Evaluation Study
The original 7 1/2” thick concrete bridge deck is 50 years old and contains extensive
previous repairs/patches throughout. The deck has been continually inspected and
deteriorated areas have been repaired as part of ongoing preventative maintenance. Items
6 through 9 in the 10-Year plan are important components of the deck maintenance/repair
program and aid in maximizing the service life of the deck.
This item includes condition monitoring and testing of the concrete deck, which will
include evaluation of the need for future full depth deck replacement. The condition
monitoring and testing program has been in place for decades and forms the basis of
determining the appropriate types and level of repairs required to best prolong the life of
the deck. The program allows for RITBA to track deterioration over time. The evaluation
aspects of this item include:
• Targeted condition inspections using visual techniques to identify cracks and spalls
in the riding surface.
• Concrete sounding (hammer tapping or chain drag) to discover delaminations.
• Sampling and testing of chloride intrusion from deicing salts.
The deck evaluation is anticipated in 2026-2027.
Item 11: Median Barrier Maintenance
The original median barrier installation (contract 14-12) included a service agreement to
maintain (clean, repaint guidelines and perform minor repairs) the barrier system and
replace damaged barrier units until 2020. After the initial four-year maintenance period,
the cost of maintenance and repair of the barrier becomes an ongoing cost to RITBA. The
10-Year Plan reflects this cost starting in 2020-2021. It is estimated that approximately five
barrier units will need to be replaced yearly in addition to the general maintenance. RITBA
currently has 50 spare barrier units that will likely need to be replenished during this 10-
year period.
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PAGE 10 OF 59NEWPORT PELL BRIDGE
Item 12: Realignment of West Approach Roadway
The Jamestown Toll Plaza was upgraded to include open road tolling (ORT) lanes in 2012.
The current toll plaza configuration consists of one ORT lane and four mixed toll lanes
(cash and E-Z Pass) in each direction, which forces motorists to choose the appropriate
lane as they approach the toll plaza. Drivers navigating through the plaza also need to
decide whether to remain on the RI 138 Connector Highway or exit onto local roads.
The decision making is more challenging for westbound drivers approaching the toll plaza
from the Newport Pell Bridge due to the less than ideal sight distance. The westbound
roadway follows a curved alignment that flares out just before the plaza. The curve reduces
the driver’s view of the toll plaza and corresponding signage, delaying lane choice
determination until entering the toll plaza area. This creates potential safety issues,
especially for trucks, which require a greater distance to react. This item intends to address
this situation by realigning the westbound roadway between the Newport Pell Bridge and
the toll plaza. The 10-Year Plan anticipates the west approach roadway realignment
construction in 2022-2023.
Work under this item will be coordinated with Item 8: Structure “E” Superstructure
Replacement and Widening in the Minor Bridges Section and Item 7: Jamestown Toll
Plaza Upgrades in the Facilities Section of this 10-Year Plan.
Item 13: Removal of Loose Stringer Haunches (Combine
with Appropriate Contracts)
The stringers (smaller longitudinal members spanning between transverse floorbeams)
directly support the bridge deck. Typical cast-in-place deck on beam/stringer bridges are
designed with a small space between the underside of the deck and the top of the steel
beam/stringer top flanges, which allows for adjustments during concrete placement of the
deck. This space is typically filled with unreinforced concrete and is referred to as the
“haunch”.
The concrete haunches extend approximately 3 1/2” beyond the edge of the steel stringer
top flanges. This unsupported overhanging portion of the haunches are prone to cracking,
delamination and spalling, which presents a falling hazard. Delaminations and incipient
spalls of the haunches have been routinely removed after identification during inspections.
The 10-Year Plan includes a nominal cost for removing the loose haunches when access to
the underside of the bridge is provided by other repair work.
2020 TEN YEAR RENEWAL AND REPLACEMENT PLAN - NARRATIVE SUMMARY
PAGE 11 OF 59NEWPORT PELL BRIDGE
Item 14: Steel Superstructure Repairs/Retrofits (Suspended
Spans)
This item pertains to steel repairs identified during surface preparation for the painting of
the towers, suspender ropes and main cables. Bent/broken hand rope stanchions as
documented in the along the main cables will also be repaired.
Item 15: Painting of Steel Superstructure (Suspended Spans)
An effective paint system on steel members is crucial to maintaining functionality and the
state of good repair of the bridge, particularly on structural elements. Once the paint
system is compromised, steel corrosion will initiate rapidly due to the corrosive
environment (deicing salt, seawater exposure)
surrounding the bridge. If not corrected in a timely
manner, steel section loss will occur and repairs will
be required to maintain the structural integrity and
load-carrying capacity of the members.
The effective life of any paint system depends on a
variety of factors including the quality of the surface
preparation, the quality/appropriateness of the
paint system used on the steel, the environment and
the effectiveness of the drainage system on the
bridge. Painted steel located near failing or open
bridge deck joints typically has a reduced service life
due to roadway water runoff mixing with deicing
salt. The 10-Year Plan includes painting of the
towers and suspender ropes of the suspended spans
in 2021-2022 and 2022-2023. Photo 2 – Rust and rust staining on the towers.
Item 16: Main Cable Unwrapping, Repair and
Dehumidification
The main cables are among the most important components of the bridge since they serve
as the primary structural load path and are nonredundant structural members. Each main
cable on the Newport Pell Bridge consists of numerous parallel galvanized steel wires. The
wire strands are encased within a painted fiberglass (Lucite) wrapping system. Accessing
the wire strand and individual wires is an intricate process required for inspection,
2020 TEN YEAR RENEWAL AND REPLACEMENT PLAN - NARRATIVE SUMMARY
PAGE 12 OF 59NEWPORT PELL BRIDGE
maintenance and repair. This process includes removing the wrapping and wedge opening
the wire strand to allow access to inspect/repair the individual wires. Following the
inspection/repair, the individual wires are lubricated (specially formulated oil) and
compacted into the wire strand. The wire strand is then enclosed by a new elastomeric
wrapping system, which is then painted.
There are a variety of contributing factors leading to main cable corrosion and eventual
loss of strength. The process typically starts with the breakdown of the galvanization on the
individual wires due to the reaction with infiltrated water and atmospheric pollutants.
Once the galvanization is damaged, corrosion develops and weakens the wires. The high
strength steel used for the cable wire is relatively brittle and prone to fracture from
corrosion related section loss. Additionally, a phenomenon known as “hydrogen
embrittlement” can occur whereby hydrogen atoms defuse into the steel affecting the
molecular bonds of the steel, resulting in increased brittleness. These conditions can lead
to breaking of individual wires even under normal stress levels.
Main cable dehumidification is a new process used to create a dry-state environment
within the cable system through an active means. The system injects dried air into the
cable’s sealed enclosure (wrapping) and into the void space between the individual wires.
The injected dried air absorbs the water trapped within the enclosed cable system and is
evacuated through exhaust ports. Research has shown that maintaining the relative
humidity to a level below 60% dramatically reduces corrosion and further lowering to 40%
reduces corrosion to negligible rates.
This item includes unwrapping/rewrapping, localized repairs and dehumidifying the main
cables at the end of the ten-year period.
Item 17: Prestressed Concrete Girder Repairs
The ends of scattered prestressed concrete girders of the east approach spans exhibit spalls
in the bottom flange with exposed and corroded steel reinforcement. This spalling typically
occurs under the deck joints. The typical girder spall repair involves removing loose and
deteriorated concrete, cleaning the exposed reinforcement, filling the spalled area with
non-shrink repair mortar and applying a mastic and fiber wrap around the girder. Repairs
were performed on numerous prestressed girders in the east approach spans under
completed contract 17-3. The prestressed concrete girders repairs are assumed towards the
end of the ten-year period.
2020 TEN YEAR RENEWAL AND REPLACEMENT PLAN - NARRATIVE SUMMARY
PAGE 13 OF 59NEWPORT PELL BRIDGE
Item 18: Rocker Bearing Repairs / Resetting (Deck Truss and
Girder Spans)
The rocker bearings that support the superstructure must be reset periodically to correct
misalignment or to release any “frozen” bearings. If a rocker bearing is not reset, tilting
beyond a safe degree could occur, potentially leading to the overturning of the bearing.
The 10-Year Plan includes the estimated cost of resetting select rocker bearings in 2023-
2024 to maintain safety until the bearings are eventually replaced with modern bearings
under Item 19.
Item 19: Bearing Replacements (Deck Truss and Girder
Spans)
The rocker bearings supporting the trusses and girders were state of the art when the
bridge was constructed. However, it is now known that this type of bearing performs poorly
during seismic events. Also, there are numerous rocker bearings that have become “frozen”
and are not functioning as intended. Completed contract 17-3 replaced all existing steel
bearings within span 33E to the east abutment with new elastomeric bearings. The 10-Year
Plan includes the estimated cost of replacing rocker bearings with modern bearings that
conform to current design standards.
Item 20: Pier Concrete Repairs
The pier caps and columns exhibit
up to 1/4” wide cracks, scattered
delaminations and scattered
spalls, particularly in the west
approach spans. The spalls extend
up to 5” deep and have exposed
reinforcement. Some concrete
repairs were performed on the
piers of the east approach spans
under completed contract 17-3.
The concrete repairs of the piers
are anticipated in 2019-2020 as
part of contract 19-4.
Photo 3 – Cracking with Rust Staining in the Pier 11W Cap
and Column
2020 TEN YEAR RENEWAL AND REPLACEMENT PLAN - NARRATIVE SUMMARY
PAGE 14 OF 59NEWPORT PELL BRIDGE
Item 21: Underwater Pier Repairs
According to the 2017 Underwater Inspection Report, scattered concrete pier columns
exhibit abrasion as well as steel jacket deterioration including areas of 100% section loss.
Contract 19-4 includes underwater concrete repairs to piers 1E, 17E, 19E through 21E and
34E. Fiberglass reinforced plastic (FRP) jackets will also be installed around selected pier
columns as part of contract 19-4. This work is anticipated in 2019-2020.
Item 22: West Protection Cell Repairs
There are cofferdam protection cells in the water below the low point of main suspension
cables where the main cables enter the anchorages. The protection cells prevent errant
vessels from impacting and damaging the main cables. Each of the protection cells are
formed from three circular steel sheet piling cofferdams that are filled with gravel and
topped with concrete. According to the 2017 Underwater Inspection Report, the steel sheet
piling typically exhibits moderate laminar rust with 1/8” section loss throughout and
isolated areas of 100% section loss. The east protection cells have an outer concrete
protective layer (jacket) and the west cells have a protective coating within the splash zone.
The 10-Year Plan includes installation of a concrete jacket at the west protection cells.
Item 23: Security Features - Cameras and ATMS
This item pertains to the installation and future updating of cameras and an advanced
traffic management system (ATMS) at various locations along the bridge. Cameras and
ATMS enhance safety and security by providing RITBA with real time video and data
regarding traffic flow, accidents, potential obstructions and unwarranted individuals on the
bridge. The 10-Year Plan includes the estimated costs of the initial equipment installation
in 2019-2020. Replacement/upgrading of selected components based on usage and
technology enhancements is anticipated every three years.
2020 TEN YEAR RENEWAL AND REPLACEMENT PLAN - NARRATIVE SUMMARY
PAGE 15 OF 59NEWPORT PELL BRIDGE
Item 24: Electrical Equipment / Electrical Upgrade
Roadway lighting on the bridge is essential to driver safety as it illuminates the roadway
features and potential obstructions. Similarly, US Coast Guard required navigation lighting
guide vessels through the navigational channel. The aviation lights atop the suspension
towers warn low flying aircraft of the obstruction, particularly in fog. The safety related
lighting must always be properly functioning. The digital message sign (DMS) on the
bridge warns motorists of accidents, traffic congestion, roadwork/lane closures and
weather advisories. Additionally, there are Rhode Island Common Operating Picture
(RICOP) servers and antennas on top of the towers, which are part of a statewide security
detection system.
The current electrical system on the bridge is approximately 23 years old and has a history
of outages, particularly when moisture/water fill the conduits. All the electrical loads on
the bridge are served by only one medium voltage feeder. There is no emergency generator
on the Newport side and if a power outage were to occur on that side, more than half of the
bridge would not have electrical power. The electrical and fiberoptic systems on the bridge
are scheduled for a major upgrade in 2023-2024, which will improve the reliability and
redundancy of the system.
Item 25: Access Improvement
The access system in the suspended spans consists of two longitudinal steel catwalks with
intermittent transverse crossovers. The catwalks are utilized for inspections and
maintenance. There is advanced section loss including areas of 100% section loss in the
longitudinal support channels, diaphragms and transverse struts of the catwalks. There are
numerous areas of bending/misalignment of the floor plate, kick plates and rails. The steel
catwalk in the floor system and deck truss spans is in similar but less severe condition as
the catwalk in the suspended spans.
An access improvement project is anticipated in this ten-year period and will include
repair/replacement of deteriorated catwalk members as well as expansion of the catwalk
system to other points of interest on the superstructure. The points of interests will be
areas routinely accessed for maintenance and inspection such as the underside of the deck
joints and along the pier caps.
2020 TEN YEAR RENEWAL AND REPLACEMENT PLAN - NARRATIVE SUMMARY
PAGE 16 OF 59NEWPORT PELL BRIDGE
Item 26: Tower Elevators Replacement / Upgrade
Each tower has an internal elevator in one the tower legs that extends from the roadway
level to approximately 60 feet from the top of the tower. These internal elevators are from
the original construction of the bridge and are 50 years old. The elevators are routinely
maintained and do not conform to current design standards.
There narrow access hatches into/out of the
elevator and the access hatch at the top of the
elevator only provides 12” of horizontal
clearance. This reduced clearance forces
inspectors and maintenance staff to squeeze
through the hatch to enter/exit the elevator and
limits the equipment that can be taken in the
elevator. This item includes the replacement of
the existing elevators with ones that conform to
current design standard as well as the
improvement of the access into/out of the
elevator.
Photo 4 – Reduced Clearance at the Top of the Elevator
within the Newport Pell Bridge Tower
Item 27: West Approach Curb Replacement
Select deteriorated sections of the concrete curb on the west approach roadway of the
Newport Pell Bridge are scheduled to be replaced as part of contract 19-4.
2020 TEN YEAR RENEWAL AND REPLACEMENT PLAN - NARRATIVE SUMMARY
PAGE 17 OF 59MOUNT HOPE BRIDGE
MOUNT HOPE BRIDGE
The Mount Hope Bridge opened to traffic on October 24,
1929 and carries RI 114 over the Mount Hope Bay between
the towns of Bristol on the mainland and Portsmouth on
Aquidneck Island. The bridge also spans over Old Ferry
Road in Bristol and an unnamed road between Bristol
Ferry Road and Mussel Bed Shoal Road in Portsmouth.
This 31-span bridge has a total structure length of 6,130
feet, which includes 3 suspension spans and 28 steel floor
system (girder-floorbeam-stringer) approach spans. The
main suspension span is 1,200 feet long and the two side
suspension spans are 504 feet each. The steel towers of
the suspension spans extend 285 feet above the water. With a main span of 1,200 feet, the
Mount Hope Bridge once had the longest span in New England.
Structures included:
Mount Hope Bridge Steel suspension bridge for 3 spans and steel floor system for 28
spans (6,130 ft. total length)
As shown in the above chart, the main cable rehabilitation and dehumidification, and the
superstructure repairs and painting account for roughly 40% of the anticipated costs in this
ten-year period. This percentage of expenditures is typical for a bridge of this age and
structure complexity. Wearing surface replacement and bridge deck repairs comprise
approximately 27% of the future costs. The last bridge deck replacement occurred in 1986.
Item 1: Future Repairs / Minor Rehabilitation On-Call
Contract
This item reflects an on-going, smaller scale repair program to address items identified
during bridge inspections that should not wait until a larger repair program can be
2020 TEN YEAR RENEWAL AND REPLACEMENT PLAN - NARRATIVE SUMMARY
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