Bridge maintenance projects are small, routine tasks that help keep a bridge safe and in good working condition. While they don't change the appearance of the bridge in a noticeable way, they prevent bigger problems down the road. These projects can include things like replacing joint filler, cleaning out drainage systems so water doesn’t build up, repainting steel elements to prevent rust, tightening loose bolts, repairing guardrails, or fixing damaged pavement on the bridge deck.

In simple terms, bridge maintenance is like giving the bridge a regular check-up and tune-up so it stays strong, safe, and lasts longer.

Ongoing Bridge Maintenance

Bridge Washing

Routine cleaning of bridge decks, superstructure, and substructure helps slow deterioration due to weathering and debris accumulation.

Herron Avenue Bridge Repairs

Repairs were made to the spalled concrete at bridge joint headers to mitigate leakage and associated deterioration at bridge abutments and bearings as well as the uneven driving surface. To do this work, the existing deteriorated concrete headers adjacent to the expansion joints are removed, the reinforcing steel is coated to help prevent corrosion, and new concrete is poured in place. Replacement of deteriorated downspouts that direct water through the bridge deck and away from the structure is in progress.

Header repair at Herron Ave. Bridge

Baum Boulevard Bridge Repairs

Repairs were made to the spalled concrete at bridge joint headers to mitigate leakage and associated deterioration at bridge abutments and bearings as well as the uneven driving surface. To do this work, the existing deteriorated concrete headers adjacent to the expansion joints are removed, the reinforcing steel is coated to help prevent corrosion, and new concrete is poured in place.

Header repair at Baum Blvd. Bridge

Lowrie Street Bridge Restoration and Repair

Planning is in progress to replace deteriorated sandstone units at the bridge abutments. This work includes cutting out unsound and deteriorated stone and replacing it with new, similar sandstone to help prolong the life of the abutments. The joints in the masonry abutments will also be repointed with new mortar. In addition, repair of the spalled concrete at the top of the stairs will be completed.

Deteriorated sandstone at Lowrie St. Bridge abutments
Spalled concrete at stair railing baseplate.

Timberland Avenue Bridge Demolition

Due to safety concerns regarding structural stability, Timberland Avenue Bridge will be demolished this year.

Condition of Timberland Ave. Bridge

Completed Bridge Maintenance

Wilksboro Avenue Pedestrian Bridge Demolition (2026)

Due to safety concerns regarding structural stability, Wilksboro Avenue Pedestrian Bridge was demolished this winter.

Before: Wilksboro Pedestrian Bridge Before Demoltion After: Wilksboro Pedestrian Bridge after Demoltion

Bloomfield Bridge Joint Seal Replacement (2025)

Replacement of deteriorated joint seals at expansion joints helps mitigate deterioration of the structure by eliminating runoff leakage through the joints onto the bridge structure.

Before: Before: Deteriorated joint seals at expansion joints result in water runoff to leak through joints onto the bridge structure below. After: Replacement of deteriorated joint seals at expansion joints helps mitigate deterioration of the structure by eliminating leaks through the joints.

Milroy Street Bridge (2025)

Mitigation of safety concerns by removal of spalled concrete. In addition, repairs were carried out at the concrete abutments and the bearings of the bridge were cleaned.

Before: Abutment Condition After: Abutment Condition

South Aiken Avenue Bridge over PRT East Busway and Norfolk Southern Railroad (2025)

Mitigation of leakage and associated deterioration at bridge abutments and bearings.

Before After

28th Street Bridge (2025)

Mitigation of safety concerns by removal of loose material from the underside of the bridge structure over the parking lot below.