The Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) is trying out a new bridge replacement technique known as Geosynthetic Reinforced Soil – Integrated Bridge System (GRS-IBS). The new method uses basic earthwork techniques to create a reinforced soil foundation for the abutment and an integrated approach.
Benefits of the GRS-IBS system, which was developed by the Federal Highway Administration, include accelerated construction, reduced cost and flexible design. In addition, the simplicity of the structure should reduce the number of problems that can occur among individual parts.
“This is a great opportunity for us to showcase a technology that provides an alternative to traditional construction with added benefits,” said James Luebke from WisDOT’s Bureau of Structures. “Providing efficient and cost-effective solutions are core goals at WisDOT, and it’s exciting to be working on a project aimed at doing just that.”
(more on WisDOT's use of the GRS-IBS bridge replacement method...)
