As part of a Load Rating retainer contract with LADOTD, Forte and Tablada was tasked with inspecting and load rating 12 complex off-system complex bridges statewide. The type of bridges included nine (9) movable bridges (including vertical lift and swing-spans), a steel truss bridge, and two (2) ferry access bridges that were composed of steel truss, movable, and pontoon spans. Where existing plans were not available, 3-D laser scanning was utilized to capture complicated geometry and to assist in the load rating and in the development of bridge load rating plans. The inspection also included the use of an ultrasonic thickness gage to verify member thickness, as well as detailed measurements using laser scan data to determine connection details. The scope of work also included the submittal of an Inspection Report and a Load Rating Report in accordance with the requirements of the LADOTD Bridge Design and Evaluation Manual (BDEM).
