Field Performance Of Timber Bridges

The North Siwell Road bridge was constructed during December 1994 in Hinds County, Mississippi. The bridge is a single span, stress laminated T-beam structure measuring 9.1 m (30 ft) in length and 8.7 m (28.5 ft) in width. Performance of the bridge was monitored for 24 months, beginning at the time of installation. Monitoring involved gathering and evaluating data relative to the moisture content of the wood components, force level of stressing bars, and behavior of the bridge under static load conditions. Comprehensive visual inspections were also conducted to assess the overall condition of the structure. Based on field evaluations, the bridge is performing well.