Groundhog River Bridge Demolition
Location: Fauquier, Ontario
Client: Facca Incorporated
Timeframe: 2021
Key Staff: Kyle Boudreau, Nick MacEachern
The barge supported demolition of the Groundhog River Bridge, captured in a timelapse video. Fauquier, Ontario, 2021.
Project Description
The former Groundhog River Bridge, at 80 years old, was approaching the end of its service life. In 2021, Harbourside was contracted by Facca Incorporated to provide alternative options for demolition of two such structures that spanned the Groundhog River waterway.
Harbourside’s Role
The Groundhog River Bridge Demolition project is a prime example of Harbourside’s approach on all of the projects we undertake. While working for the general contractor, Harbourside provided a value-added alternative to the demolition of the existing two (2) span 76m – 76m thru truss bridges. This saved both time and money for our client.
To facilitate use of the contractor-owned crawler cranes and barge assemblies, HEC proposed a de-launch methodology that allowed for de-launch of the bridge superstructure on the approaches, where traditional means of deconstruction could be completed. This can be seen in the video above, where the bridge structure is hoisted, then floated by barge to shore for deconstruction.
Harbourside conducted a full analysis of the bridge during all phases of the demolition. This included providing the detailed design of the support towers on the barge platforms, and connection to the existing bridge structure. A full floating stability analysis was conducted for the barges while supporting the bridge as well.
Unique Challenges
Use of the barges as part of the demolition necessitated careful calibration to avoid tipping. It otherwise offered a unique solution that helped save time and effort on the part of the client.
In addition, Harbourside designed a unique ladder and support system to assist with the demolition of the steel structures, once these were safely floated to shore.
Social Impact
The Groundhog River Bridge, as part of the Trans-Canada Highway, is a vital piece of infrastructure. The removal of the aging structures will have a significant impact on the safety of travellers through the area. In addition, the demolition methods used in removing the old structures required little in-water work, thereby limiting the effect on local fish populations (like the self-sustaining sturgeon fisheries that call the river home).