Warren Brook Bridge Replacement
Location: Cape Breton, NS
Client: Parks Canada
Duration: 2015
Approximate Value: $2.6 M
Key Staff: Wade Pottie
Project Description
The former Warren Brook Bridge was a simple span, built-up steel plate girder bridge with a reinforced concrete deck, reinforced concrete abutments and reinforced concrete retaining walls supporting the roadway subgrade on each approach. The structure spanned over the Warren Brook along the Cabot Trail near Ingonish Beach, Nova Scotia. Repairs had been completed on the structure over its lifetime; however, a call for proposals was issued in 2015 for the design of a replacement for the Warren Brook Bridge. The project objective was to remove and replace the existing bridge in an efficient, cost-effective and environmentally friendly manner. Another goal was to realign the approaches on each side of the bridge to meet current standards.
Harbourside’s Role
After a preliminary design stage that evaluated several structure type and highway alignment options, Harbourside determined the optimal solution. In order to best satisfy project objectives, a simple span, precast concrete girder bridge, with integral abutments supported by end bearing H-piles driven to refusal in bedrock was selected. The replacement bridge superstructure consists of four (4), tangential 1200mm deep New England Bulb Tee (NEBT) precast concrete girders supporting a horizontally curved (radius = 190 metres), super-elevated, reinforced concrete deck. The superstructure is supported on fully integral, reinforced concrete abutments, positioned such that there is no requirement for temporary water control measures or in-water work during construction. The design for the new structure also incorporates decorative end pilasters and an open steel barrier rail to add to the aesthetics of the bridge.
Unique Challenges
As part of the Cape Breton Highlands route, the appearance of the bridge was of great consideration during the design phase. Although the esthetic is relatively minimalist, additional details were added to enhance the bridge’s overall character. Noticeable on the decorative end pilasters, the Parks Canada beaver can be seen. This charming addition is a reminder of the natural beauty that surrounds travellers exploring the Cape Breton Highlands.
Social Impact
The Cape Breton Highlands feature some of the most scenic stretches of roadway in all of Nova Scotia. Every year, the drive draws thousands of visitors from across the world. The proper care and maintenance of these roadways is essential to tourism in the area. This bridge replacement is an important residents, businesses, and tourists, as it ensures that travel can continue smoothly throughout the year.