Abstract
Replacement of many old and aging bridges, culverts, and low-water crossings on rural low-volume roads is an increasing concern throughout the United States. The economic burden for many local bodies can be huge if these structures are to be replaced by a bridge or culvert. A low-water crossing (LWC) is a feasible and efficient road-stream crossing structure that can be used on these roads as an economical alternative to culverts and bridges. Three types of commonly used LWCs; unvented fords, vented fords and low-water bridges; their selection criteria, environmental considerations, design process, materials selection, signage and permitting requirements are included in this paper. Some of the issues with the existing LWCs are the safety in the crossing and effects on aquatic organism passage and surrounding environment. Through proper design, construction, and installation of proper signage, the functionality and reliability of LWCs can be improved. The study provides engineers and other practitioners in the United States and elsewhere with a proper set of information and design procedures for using LWCs.
Highlights
A low-water crossing (LWC) is a feasible and efficient road-stream crossing structure that may be implemented on roads with average daily traffic (ADT) of less than 25 vehicles
The paper provides an overview of the different types and implemented designs of low-water crossings throughout the United States
In addition to guiding the practitioners through LWC assessment and implementation, this paper addresses the environmental impacts of LWCs, including effects on Aquatic Organism
Summary
A low-water crossing (LWC) is a feasible and efficient road-stream crossing structure that may be implemented on roads with average daily traffic (ADT) of less than 25 vehicles. LWCs are road-stream crossing structures designed to be overtopped by high flows or by debris- or ice-laden flows [1]. At times when the structures are overtopped, the road will be closed to traffic, and alternative routes must be used. These relatively inexpensive structures are very useful across ephemeral streams and where the normal depth of flow is low. In the United States, there are many old and aging bridges, culverts, and low-water crossings on rural low-volume roads that need to be replaced. The economic burden for local agencies can be huge if these structures are replaced by a bridge or culvert. In Illinois, these structures are of use on farmland access roads that are used only a few times a year for transporting machinery, agricultural commodities, and supplies
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