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Structural Engineer Says Two Downtown Rail Bridges Need Attention

By Jeff Neumeyer
June 18, 2010 Updated Nov 9, 2009 at 5:52 PM EST FORT WAYNE, IN (Indiana's NewsCenter) --- Aging infrastructure is a problem across the United States, and we found a pair of Fort Wayne railroad bridges that a local engineer says need some attention. On an average day, between five and seven heavy trains roll over a rail bridge at Fairfield and Baker Streets. Down below, where there's a middle row of metal columns supporting the weight above, the two piers at each end are showing signs of stress. Jim McClain/Structural Engineer: " The base plate is under the column, and below that is what we call the concrete pier. The concrete has eroded so much, you can see the anchor bolts on all four sides are exposed now." In Jim McClain's opinion, about a half dozen other columns, besides the two on the end, are on firm footing. He says the bridge is in no immediate danger of giving way, but that it needs attention now. A spokesperson for RailAmerica, responsible for upkeep on this line, told us, "We work diligently to ensure safe operating conditions. All RailAmerica track-carrying structures are regularly inspected. Conditions that have an impact on a structure’s safety are repaired. The weathered concrete and steel on this structure are cosmetic conditions that do not impact the bridge's structural capacity." Reporter: " That would not be a fair assessment?" McClain: " It's not cosmetic, no. The two piers should have been fixed a long time ago." Jeff Neumeyer: " You don't have to go far to see another example of infrastructure deterioration. About 100 yards to the south, there's another railroad bridge that has a whole different set of issues." McClain says the support structure on that bridge is fine, but that freezing and thawing is causing concrete on the underneath side to loosen, putting passing motorists at risk. McClain: " Large chunks of concrete have fallen to the pavement and I believe it will continue until there are repairs made." These cases are not unique; in fact, McClain says lots of area bridges are fighting wear and tear, challenging the popular notion that time heals all wounds.
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