Re: 2007: A Bad Year for Bridges???
Author: shortline sammie
Date: 08-03-2007 - 20:33
Railroad bridges are built to withstand many times their actual expected loading. The Sacramento bridge (I don't have expertise on highway bridges; I do on railroad bridges) would have most likely carried its design loading for many, many years had it not caught fire.
The replacement concrete span(s) will most likely last a good long time IF there is not a derailment or other catastrosphic event that causes structural damage. Just like wood ties are somewhat forgiving where concrete ties become parking lot bumpers after a minor derailment.
Shortline Sammie