Specifications include, but are not limited to: Approach slabs span the embankment directly behind the bridge abutment backwall to provide a smooth transition between the bridge and pavement. Ride roughness at the approach slab has been a persistent problem, requiring significant maintenance for many highway agencies. The problem is so prevalent it is commonly referred to as “the bump at the end of a bridge”. Extensive research has identified time-dependent consolidation of the embankment and foundation soil along with inadequate compaction as primary causes for approach roughness. The natural movement of an integral bridge abutment, which SDDOT uses extensively, can further compress the embankment material. Additional causes include design details, drainage, soil erosion, embankment material quality, and construction. The complexity of the problem is evidence that bridge approach roughness may be due to various conditions happening simultaneously, with a solution achievable by design engineers, geotechnical engineers, field engineers, and contractors working together. The South Dakota Department of Transportation welcomes proposals from colleges, universities, research institutes, foundations, consultants, federal, state, and local agencies, and others with demonstrated capability and experience in the subject area.