UDOT commission approves funding additions for multiple bridge replacements

The Utah Transportation Commission approved a set of funding additions and program modifications under the federal Bridge Formula Program covering multiple bridge replacement projects across the state.

Staff described each project’s scope and rationale: four locally owned bridges in Oakley (load-restricted, affecting school buses), a High Line Canal bridge replacement for Santaquin (recommended for abandonment due to Bureau of Reclamation plans), a UDOT-owned US‑89 bridge over Clear Creek south of Joseph requiring profile adjustments, SR‑24 over the Fremont River near Capitol Reef (permitting complexity due to park proximity), multi-bridge replacements on SR‑81 and SR‑142, replacement of SR‑163 Halgette Wash structure and SR‑12 Calf Creek bridge with scour countermeasures. UDOT said the new bridges will be designed to current standards with an expected 75-year design life per AASHTO guidelines.

Cheryl Hirsch, UDOT chief structural engineer, explained that national AASHTO design guidance moved from a 50-year to a 75-year design life due to detailing practices and material durability improvements. Commissioners asked about inspection and preservation practices; staff noted structures are inspected every two years and preservation programs extend service life.

A motion to approve funding additions and program changes passed by voice vote.