20161043_Bridge #175 Justification for culvert_20161028

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September 15, 2016
Andrew Williams
Regulatory Project Manager
US Army Corps of Engineers
3331 Heritage Trade Drive, Suite 105
Wake Forrest, NC 27587
PAT McCR�RY
Governor
NICH4LAS ,J. TENNYSON
Secretary
Subject: Bridge 175 in Randolph County, USACE Action ID: SAW-2016-01641
Dear Mr. Williams:
This is in response to your request for written information pertaining to the replacement of the
subject bridge with a reinforced concrete box culvert. Please let it be known, that the DOT
prefers a new bridge at this site, but our "hands are tied" due to the large transmissions lines
crossing the south end of the existing bridge.
Safety! Safety is the biggest concern with replacing the existing structure with a bridge. The
existing transmission lines carry 230 kilovolts. OSHA requires a minirnum of 20 feet of clearance
from these lines. These existing transmission lines are 37 feet above the proposed cross section
(39 feet above existing�. This only leaves 17 feet of "working roorn". Setting the cored slab
superstructure of a proposed bridge is most concerning with this minimum distance. There is
not a piece of equipment, that we are aware of, that is capable of setting the cored slabs
without breaking this minimum 20 feet of clearance. Also, geotechnical investigations reveal
the necessity for driven or augured piles at the end bents of a proposed bridge. The minimum
clearance is also not achievable with the cranes or drill rigs that would be needed for this work.
This has been discussed in depth with DOT and private engineers, as well as a well-known
construction company.
Moving the transmission lines is not a feasible alternative. Even if rnoving the transmission lines
was an alternative, the cost would be excessive. We have been given a"ball park estimate" of
$1.5 million to move the transmission lines.
Thank you for your time and consideration in dealing with this matter. Please let me know if
you need additional information.
Sincerel ,
t .,
T.F. Welch, PE
Division 8 Bridge Program Manager
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State of North Carolina � Department of Transportation � Division 8
902 N. Sandhills Blvd. � Aberdeen, N.C. 28315
910-944-2344 T

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cc: John Olinger, PE, Division 8 Construction Engineer
Art King, Division 8 Environmental Engineer