Saranac River Bridge

What was the Challenge?

Replacement of the County Route 48 Bridge over the Saranac River presented several design challenges, including high-voltage transmission lines located parallel to the bridge, an intersecting road nearby, a power-generating dam located just downstream, bedrock elevations varying from 10 to 25 feet below the roadway surface, and bedrock outcrops on both approaches which limited alignment alternatives. As the only major crossing of the Saranac River between Saranac Lake and Clayburg, the off-site detour length was 28 miles.

How did Barton & Loguidice provide a solution?

Barton & Loguidice worked with the New York State Department of Transportation and Franklin County to develop a replacement alternative for the deficient bridge and to minimize the impacts to the adjacent communities. Precast concrete component and drilled micropiles were used as a replacement alternative in order to complete the bridge on a tight deadline. Precast concrete components were specified so the bridge could be fabricated off site while the micropiles were being installed in order to expedite the project.

Why was the project a success?

The existing bridge was closed, removed, replaced, and opened to the public in 19 days. The closure of the structure was coordinated with the surrounding community to minimize the impacts of the project.