Operational Structural Performance of Bridge Types by Areas

Abstract

This paper demonstrates trends in bridge structural deficiency and evaluates the operational structural performance of various types of bridge structural design and/or construction. The study analyzes the database of the National Bridge Inventory and derives data based on actual bridge deck areas, rather than discrete bridge counts. Based on the concept of structural deficiency and the objective of life-cycle expectancy for uninterrupted service life, the multiple-criteria diagnostic analysis determines condition, durability, longevity, and equivalent performance. For some bridge types, the results reflect limited remaining service life before structural deficiency is reached. Average service life is only 56% of life-cycle expectancy. The relatively higher condition performance contrasts with the significantly poor performance of durability and the relatively lower longevity. The equivalent structural performance of some bridge types is low. Overall, the study provides an indication of the current average potential, which serves as a basis for predicting future performance under similar operational conditions. The systems approach supports more objective design, maintenance, and decision-making practices, leading to more effective operation and management and more sustainable infrastructure solutions.