Solutions sought
Variable soil conditions and rock layers proved to be
another challenge for the team, according to Ivan
Gualtero, Ayres’ lead structural designer.
“Stability of the bridge was critical,” Gualtero said,
adding that soils were soft on top with relatively
shallow, hard, rocky layers beneath. This soil
configuration, coupled with the project’s narrow
footprint, complicated the foundation design.
Engineers needed to reanalyze each footing for lateral
stability as the foundation was being built, he said. But
rather than establishing pile driving criteria for all piles
based on the driving of test piles, as is customary,
the structural and geotechnical engineers completed
regular feedback loops, relaying encountered piledriving data back to the office so that designs for the
remaining production piles could be refined.
Still, the team once again rose to the challenge.
“If a pile was driven out of tolerance and a redesign
was necessary, (Ayres) was able to resolve it in a
timely manner without any major changes to the
overall project,” Quaid said.
Norton praised the Ayres’ staff – Gualtero in particular
– for their quick action and professionalism.
“Ivan was always in the trenches with us,” Norton
said. “Whenever there was a question or an issue, he
was first to the site and very proactive.”
A View to Admire
The Courtney Campbell Causeway is
designated as a Florida Scenic Highway.
Designers of the new Courtney Campbell
Multiuse Trail Bridge – just 90 feet away –
took great care to see that the pedestrian
bridge would not obstruct the views from
the main highway. The pedestrian bridge
features four strategically placed overlooks
from which trail users can enjoy the stunning
views of Old Tampa Bay. The observation
points were not a project requirement but
were included in the design to enhance the
value.
TRENDS
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