The purpose of this project is to alleviate structural concerns with the existing bridge span culvert on US41 over Spring Branch. The need for this project is driven by several factors which include: - The bridge was built in 1976 (bridge inspection records list 1976, plans are dated 1964) and has never been rehabilitated. The structure is comprised of twin, 15'-4"x9'-3" steel plate ellipticals with a 30 degree skew to the US41 alignment. The culvert condition is currently rated as fair (5) due to moderate corrosion with minor to moderate section loss. This level of condition typically prompts consideration, from INDOT asset management, of future rehabilitation or replacement projects on divided highways. - The typical service life of a steel culvert structure ranges from 40 year to 75 years, the existing structure would be 53 years old in fiscal year 2029. - There is currently no guardrail at the bridge and none is required. No other safety features at the site need to be upgraded as part of this project. - A design inventory, design operating, and legal load rating factors are currently above 1.0. - The existing structure has sufficient hydraulic performance with a 0.82' backwater at Q100 and also meets roadway serviceability requirements at Q100. - INDOT development of a long range plan for each bridge asset has allowed the agency to forecast future needs over the next 40 years and to fiscally constrain upcoming construction seasons based upon expected funding and inflation patterns. This in-depth analysis has been utilized in selecting this project for fiscal year 2029. The proposed project will provide a longer service life, and prevent potential emergency repairs due to the age and treatment history of the existing structure.
