Bolair Bridge

Project Details

The existing structure was a six-span timber deck bridge with ten concrete footings,  crossing the Gauley River and located along West Virginia Route 20. 

The design of the proposed structure, provided by the WVDOH, was a three span timber  deck bridge, with a foundation comprised of two six-foot diameter concrete caissons in the  Gauley River and a temporary causeway for access during demolition. 

This section of the Gauley River is protected, given the presence of rare fish species,  specifically the candy darter. The candy darter is an endangered species that is protected  by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Department. Extra precaution must be taken and minimal  disturbance preferred when working in and around critical habitats, subsequently making  the proposed design a potential threat to the species.  

Tempo Construction was awarded the project and proposed a Value Engineering Change  Proposal (VECP) to minimize stream disturbance. The VECP bridge design was a single  span bridge with a concrete deck that eliminated the concrete caissons and causeway  proposed in the original design, while also providing a cost savings for the overall project.  

Demolition of the Existing Bridge: 

After removal of the timber deck and steel substructure, the existing concrete foundations  were removed by lifting each pier with a crane carefully situated on the river’s edge. This  nearly eliminated all impact to the river during demolition. State Environmental and U.S.  Fish and Wildlife inspectors witnessed the removal and were impressed with the  construction methods used to minimize disturbance within the waterway.  

New Construction of the VECP Bridge: 

The new construction had no impact on the river given the VECP’s single span design and  the ability to work from the river’s edges by using innovative construction methods. This  eliminated the need for new piers to be constructed within the waterway keeping  construction activities from disturbing the streambed and disrupting the flow of water.  

Additionally, the concrete deck was an improvement to the existing and initially proposed  design, increasing the longevity of the structure itself. 

This project restored access to West Virginia Route 20 and provided a second river crossing  location for surrounding residences. Tempo Construction is very grateful for the support of  the community during construction of the bridge; thank you!