Repairing A Western Massachusetts Landmark
Our Transportation team assisted the Shelburne Falls Fire District in performing a structural assessment and conceptual designs for repairs to the Bridge of Flowers. The bridge is an internationally known landmark and attraction in Western Massachusetts.
The bridge is a five-span, concrete spandrel arch. Construction photos suggest that piers in the river are supported by shallow foundations on ledge. Forms were built from the footings and the arches were cast-in-place. Vehicular loads are restricted from the bridge. Most of the loading is a result of the extensive gardens, including small trees and mature vines.
Our team performed a structural assessment using UAV systems (drones), evaluating pier footings for overall stability and signs of scour. The firm coordinated with the local dam authority to lower the water level in the river to facilitate assessment. Exposed concrete surfaces on the bridge were assessed for signs of deterioration including cracks, spalls, efflorescence, abrasion, breakdown of cementitious material, rust staining, and potentially other signs.
The work also included the assessment of a test pit to expose reinforcement, development of conceptual design costs for rehabilitation, and assistance to the Fire District to determine and evaluate potential sources of funding to support upcoming rehabilitation work.
Construction phase work includes the replacement of a section of the bridge wall, miscellaneous concrete spall and crack repair, new paint/handrails/lighting/irrigation, and replacement of the water main. Repairs to the Bridge of Flowers are now underway, with the project in its construction phase. The project will be funded by a MassWorks grant of nearly $3.2 million.
Services Snapshot
Tighe & Bond assisted the Shelburne Falls Fire District with a structural assessment, conceptual design, grant funding assistance, and construction administration services in support of the repairs to the Bridge of Flowers.
