University Bridge Bascule Span Seismic Retrofit Design
Seattle Department of Transportation
Seattle, WA
Exeltech designed the seismic retrofit for this double-leaf 300-foot-long steel bascule section of the University Bridge, one of the lifeline structures carrying traffic over the Lake Washington Ship Canal. Opened in 1919, the University Bridge is listed in the National Register of Historic Places.
Exeltech developed a three-dimensional multi-modal seismic analysis of the steel bascule structure and the supporting concrete piers. Retrofit requirements included the strengthening of some existing riveted connections, steel structural members, and the concrete piers to withstand the seismic forces. Exeltech developed the final retrofit design, contract plans, and construction specifications as part of the Plans, Specifications & Estimate package.