CHALLENGE

Emmons County had a historical 76’3″ steel truss bridge, originally constructed in 1914, with a reduced load capacity of 9 tons after recent inspections. This bridge provided a vital crossing of the south branch of Beaver Creek to local landowners for accessing agricultural properties and cattle pastures, as well as access to a recently opened gravel pit utilitized by Emmons County. Due to the load capacity restrictions, this site was prioritized by Emmons County for a replacement project to ensure the safety of the local traffic as well as to ensure continued access for landowners and others.

 SOLUTION

In 2022, Emmons County selected Wold Engineering, P.C. to complete the preliminary cost estimate for replacement costs to submit to NDDOT for potential funding. Once funding from NDDOT was obtained, Emmons County worked with Wold Engineering, P.C. to complete the preliminary engineering and design for a new 96′ single span prestressed concrete bulb T girder bridge, supported by concrete abutments with H-piling. The longer bridge provided improved slope stability and increased waterway opening for improved hydraulics. The new bridge was also designed to meet current load standards and roadway widths.

 OUTCOME

Due to bridge funding from NDDOT being delayed, the construction of the project was bid and awarded in December of 2024. Once conditions allowed, construction began in March of 2025 and was completed by that August. Wold Engineering, P.C. provided oversight to ensure all work adhered to the approved final plans and specifications and that the project stayed within budget.