Bridge Aesthetics Initiative

The Next Chapter

“Do something about our bridge aesthetics!”

2017 – Tom Lauer
ODOT’s Bridge Aesthetics Team:

 Dr. Bob Hadlow, Senior Historian – Region 1

 Chris Bell, Historic Resources Program Coordinator

 Bob Grubbs, Region 3 Lead Bridge Engineer

 Rebecca Burrow, Structural Design, Preservation Unit

 Anthony Calcagno, Bridge Engineer, David Evans & Assoc.

 Dr. C.J. Riley, Associate Professor, Oregon Institute of Technology

 Craig Shike, Bridge Operations & Standards Manager

Current Efforts:

 Confirming current BDM aesthetics language

 Identify other recommended documents

 Identifying elements that promote good aesthetics

 Range of aesthetic categories to consider

 Rural vs. urban
 Historic vs. modern
 Area/corridor theme

 Estimated costs for aesthetic treatments

 Developing guidelines for appropriate cost for
specific types of projects

 Maintenance/seasoning of aesthetic elements

AASHTO Bridge Aesthetics Sourcebook:

“For the same reason we would not build a bridge

that is unsafe, we should not build one that is ugly.
To ignore aesthetics is irresponsible.”

Pg 5, AASHTO Bridge Aesthetics Sourcebook

Purpose of Sourcebook: “… guidelines for improving

the appearance of short- to medium-span bridges.”

“... Often referred to as ‘workhorse’ bridges.”

Pg 2, AASHTO Bridge Aesthetics Sourcebook

AASHTO Bridge Aesthetics Sourcebook:

BDM Aesthetics vs. AASHTO Sourcebook

 Both are recommended (they are not in conflict)

 Sourcebook is more comprehensive

 See Sourcebook Bibliography

“A consensus has existed since the nineteenth century on which

bridges look better and why.” (Pg 6)
Highlights from the Sourcebook:

• Keys to Success (Pg 7)

 Simplicity

 Good proportions with an emphasis on thinness

 Clear demonstration of how the structure works

 Fits its context/surroundings

Highlights from the Sourcebook:

• Visit the site – “There is no substitute for first-

hand familiarity the bridge site.” Pg 10
Highlights from the Sourcebook:

• Consider potential stakeholders – “… the people

that will have to live with bridge after it is
constructed.” Pg 14

Photo from Google Maps

Highlights from the Sourcebook:

• “Test promising options with 3D views taken from

the important viewpoints.” Pg 17

• Take photos from strategic vantage points so you will

have them available for 3D views.

Taken from I-84 Corridor Strategy, 2005

NDOT Aesthetic Guidelines – December 2009

• “Library” of aesthetic alternatives

• Includes landscape concepts

Potential sources for ideas
Who is responsible for bridge aesthetics?

Bridge Designer (What is your level of effort?)

Bridge Design Reviewer (or manager)
Bridge Design Checker (Do you check aesthetics?)

Bridge Drafter (Is criticism permitted/encouraged?)

Area Manager, Project Manager, Roadway Designer

Who must live with the results?

Craig Shike, PE
Bridge Operations & Standards Managing Engineer
Bridge Engineering Section
Oregon Department of Transportation
Craig.L.SHIKE@odot.state.or.us
503-986-3323