From: TxDOT Corpus Christi District Office Website: https://www.txdot.gov/about/districts/corpus-christi-district/cchb-update-03-07-23.html
Harbor Bridge Project Update – March 7, 2023
TxDOT continues to work directly with the Developer of the New Harbor Bridge, Flatiron/Dragados Limited Liability Company (FDLLC), to address safety concerns related to the design of the cable-stayed bridge. Below is an update on the status of the 5 main issues identified by the independent review:
Item
- Inadequate capacity of the pylon drilled shafts
Accepted Design Solution ( ADS): Add additional drilled shafts at foundation extensions at north and south pylons. This work is underway.
- Deficiencies in footing caps, related to proximity of pylons to edge of caps
ADS: Add footing extensions to increase foundation capacity and edge distance for north and south pylons. These footing extensions will be supported by the supplemental drilled shafts added as part of Item 1. This work is underway.
- Delta frame design defects
ADS: The primary issue is related to the connection between the delta frames and adjacent precast concrete units. The capacity of those connections will be increased by roughening the concrete surfaces and adding rebar that crosses the interface. This work is underway.
- Uplift at intermediate piers
ADS: While not yet resolved, FDLLC, Arup, TxDOT, and IBT are exchanging information and anticipate acceptance of design solution in the next few weeks. This portion of the bridge has not yet been constructed; therefore, no field corrections are needed.
- Excessive torsion and other stresses related to crane placement during construction
ADS: FDLLC addressed the concerns related to this item by revising their erection plan. They will also incorporate counterweights to account for any potential high wind events as the construction of the main spans nears completion.
As there are updates to be shared, TxDOT will continue to make new information available on the website.