Owner/Client
West Virginia Department of Transportation Division of Highways
Location
Clarksburg, WV
CEC Services
- Roadway Design
- Traffic Engineering
- Utility Design
- Construction Services
- Structural Engineering
- Utility Relocation
Owner Objective
The West Virginia Department of Highways (WVDOH), the state agency responsible for delivering highway and bridge infrastructure projects throughout West Virginia, partnered with the City of Clarksburg to replace the structurally deficient Haymond Highway Bridge over Elk Creek. Located within a predominantly residential neighborhood, the bridge had been identified as a priority for replacement for several years due to its deteriorating condition.
Originally, CEC was retained by the City of Clarksburg to provide engineering design services for the bridge replacement. To expedite project delivery and secure funding, the West Virginia Department of Transportation assumed responsibility for the final design and construction of the replacement structure.
CEC Approach
CEC provided comprehensive bridge engineering services for the design of a new single-span steel girder bridge crossing Elk Creek. The replacement structure features a 117-foot span (center-to-center of bearings) and a four-girder superstructure supporting a two-lane roadway with pedestrian sidewalks on both sides, improving safety and accessibility for motorists and residents alike.
To enhance long-term performance and reduce maintenance requirements, the bridge was designed with semi-integral abutments utilizing laminated elastomeric bearings. This design eliminated the need for traditional backwalls, simplifying the structure while minimizing future maintenance demands and lifecycle costs.
A significant component of the project involved the coordination and relocation of multiple utilities within the project corridor. Relocated utilities included a sanitary sewer line and several electric power poles. Additional coordination was required for numerous utility facilities attached to the existing bridge, including:
- 6-inch natural gas line
- 8-inch water main
- Two 4-inch communication conduits
- 2-inch steel conduit for cable services
CEC worked closely with utility providers to facilitate relocation efforts and maintain service continuity throughout design and construction.
Because of the constrained site conditions and the extent of construction activities, the project was designed to be completed under a full bridge closure. Contract plans included clearly defined detour routes for both vehicular and pedestrian traffic to safely maintain connectivity within the community during construction.
During construction, CEC provided engineering support to WVDOH by reviewing contractor shop drawings, evaluating temporary shoring and construction support systems, and responding to Requests for Information (RFIs). This continued involvement helped ensure that the bridge was constructed in accordance with design intent, project specifications, and applicable engineering standards.
The Haymond Highway Bridge replacement delivered a modern, durable transportation asset that improves safety, accessibility, and reliability for the Clarksburg community. Through innovative structural design, extensive utility coordination, and construction-phase engineering support, the project successfully replaced an aging bridge with a low-maintenance structure designed to serve the public for decades to come.
