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INSTRUCTORS: 
Han-Kil Lee, PE
Stephan Hollinger
Rizwan Amjad
Monir Ajan Alhadid, Ph.D., P.E.

Purpose and Background

These presentations were recorded at the ASCE Structures Congress 2025.

Pulaski Skyway Rocker Bent Replacement (22 minutes)

This presentation highlighted the innovative structural rehabilitation of the nearly 90-year-old Pulaski Skyway, a critical viaduct connecting New Jersey to the Holland Tunnel. The focus was on replacing deteriorated rocker bents that were no longer functioning due to crevice corrosion and excessive stress. The project involved complex engineering solutions such as jacking systems to relieve loads, micropile foundations, and sliding bearing systems to ensure continued operation during construction. A full-scale prototype contract was executed to validate the methodology and reduce risk for full implementation. Structural health monitoring was crucial throughout to ensure safety and model validation. The project was completed successfully with minimal closures and has set the foundation for replacing the remaining rocker bents.

The Williams Crossing (22 minutes)

The Williams Crossing is a 1,440-foot pedestrian bridge in Tulsa, Oklahoma, designed as part of a broader initiative to connect park systems across the Arkansas River. The bridge features 11 elegant steel arches with variable-depth spandrels and no intermediate expansion joints, presenting a unique engineering challenge primarily governed by temperature-induced forces. The design emphasizes slender, lightweight construction while maintaining structural integrity under various load conditions. Through inspiration from iconic arch bridges and advanced analysis methods, the team implemented a semi-integral bridge concept with precisely fabricated components and innovative detailing to control forces and accommodate movement. The result is a signature structure blending efficiency, aesthetics, and functionality.

Structural Response of Shallow Large-Diameter Shield Tunnel: Experimental Investigation (19 minutes)

This presentation detailed a full-scale experimental investigation of shallow, large-diameter shield tunnels, focusing on segmental lining behavior under both construction and operational stages. The study examined the effects of grout slurry pressure, longitudinal jacking forces, and external tunnel crossings on structural performance. Through the use of radial and longitudinal jacks, a comprehensive multi-ring test setup was developed to simulate real-world forces and measure displacements, joint dislocations, and convergence. The study revealed that construction activities, especially slurry pressure, have a significant impact on tunnel integrity, while external activities such as nearby tunnel construction further compound risks. Findings support improved tunnel life-cycle assessments and design modifications.

Shoring Substitution of Loaded Plate Girders Using Wing Plates (26 minutes)

In this case study, the instructor presented a method for strengthening deteriorated plate girders without using traditional shoring or jacking, which was unfeasible due to site constraints. The solution, termed "wing plates," involved staged installation of reinforcement elements that temporarily increased section capacity while allowing for replacement of deteriorated top flanges under live load conditions. Each step was designed to maintain structural equilibrium, with stresses redistributed in stages using temporary and permanent connections. The method enabled repair of heavily used railway infrastructure in Queens, New York, without disrupting service or requiring extensive closures, marking a significant advancement in bridge rehabilitation techniques.

Benefits and Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, you will be able to:

• Describe the techniques used to ensure safe load transfer during the bent replacement.
• Identify the key features and benefits of the Williams Crossing diverging diamond interchange design.
• Explain the experimental methods used to assess the structural response of shallow large-diameter shield tunnels.
• Discuss how wing plates can be used to eliminate the need for traditional shoring in loaded plate girder systems.

Assessment of Learning Outcomes

Students' achievement of the learning outcomes will be assessed via a short post-test assessment (true-false, multiple choice, and/or fill in the blank questions).

Who Should Attend?

• Construction Engineers
• Structural Engineers
• Project Managers
• General Contractors
• Early Career Professionals
• Builders

How to Earn Your CEUs/PDHs and Receive Your Certificate of Completion

To receive your certificate of completion, you will need to complete a short post-test and receive a passing score of 70% or higher within 1 year of purchasing the course.

How do I convert CEUs to PDHs?

1.0 CEU = 10 PDHs [Example: 0.1 CEU = 1 PDH]