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Bridging the gap between conflicting needs to optimize a critical connection

At a Glance

  • 700

    Foot Navigation Span

  • 1,912

    Foot Long Bridge

  • $63M

    Construction Value

Location
Smithland, Kentucky
Offices

US 60 Cumberland River Bridge Replacement

Built in 1931, the existing US 60 Bridge over the Cumberland River needed to be replaced. At first glance, replacing the bridge seemed straightforward¡ªthe new bridge needed to be functional, safe, and economical. However, multiple stakeholders, navigation constraints, archaeological impacts, and a history of riverbank stability problems led to a complex interrelated design process.

We partnered with Seaman¡¯s Church Institute to perform navigation simulation modeling of alignment and pier placement options. The innovative study, done in collaboration with the maritime industry and Coast Guard, resulted in early buy-in on required clearances. A subsequent bridge type and span arrangement study resulted in a span that met the design objectives and owner preference.

The modified warren truss features a modern design approach that improves efficiency and aesthetics while reducing life-cycle costs by eliminating verticals and sway bracing.

The project included environmental studies and permitting, public involvement, surveying, bridge and roadway design, geotechnical engineering, utility coordination, and construction phase support. The US 60 Cumberland bridge design met the varied needs of all stakeholders and will successfully replace its nearly century-old predecessor.

At a Glance

  • 700

    Foot Navigation Span

  • 1,912

    Foot Long Bridge

  • $63M

    Construction Value

Location
Smithland, Kentucky
Offices

Keeping communities connected with a modern bridge design

The only crossing for miles, Smithland Bridge connects the downtown to greater Livingston County.

Meet Our Team

Taylor Perkins, Principal, Senior Structural Engineer

Complex projects are opportunities for innovation¡ªthe challenge of fusing engineering with creativity inspires me.

Kurt Schaefer, Principal, Geotechnical Engineering

Our greatest weakness lies in giving up. The most certain way to succeed is always to try just one more time. -Thomas Edison

Taylor Perkins

Principal, Senior Structural Engineer

Kurt Schaefer

Principal, Geotechnical Engineering

We¡¯re better together

  • Become a client

    Partner with us today to change how tomorrow looks. You¡¯re exactly what¡¯s needed to help us make it happen in your community.

  • Design your career

    Work with passionate people who are experts in their field. Our teams love what they do and are driven by how their work makes an impact on the communities they serve.

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