Rehabilitation of a Historic Truss Wrought Iron Bridge in the Hidden Lake Forest Preserve
Team Members Heading link
- Nik Appelt
- Sherwin Solomon
- Jesus Tinajero
- Raul Trejo
Project Description Heading link
Bridges play a crucial role in infrastructure and have been built for as long as recorded human history. The materials and methods of bridge construction have evolved over time; however, some bridges built centuries ago are still functioning and serviceable today. In Downers Grove, Illinois, the Hidden Lake Forest Preserve is home to a bridge that was built in approximately 1870. It is one of the only examples of a cast and wrought iron bowstring truss bridge that survives today. However, the bridge has encountered erosion and structural issues that threaten its load bearing and ultimate safety. Therefore, the focus of this project is to provide a solution to repair, reconstruct, and ensure the safety of the bridge to protect the public and preserve its historic value. The senior design team attempts to solve this problem by designing an updated version of the bridge using SAP2000 structural analysis and design software. Also, comparing different models and performing cost analysis between them are considered, as they are important factors. Knowledge learned from structural steel design classes will be used to design some of the components of the bridge, such as truss members and connections, while cross analyzing with financial engineering and construction management. The goal is to have a reconstructed aesthetically and structurally enhanced bridge that maintains its historical significance, but can withstand loads heavy enough for daily maintenance vehicle and pedestrian traffic. The team wants to thank H.W. Lochner’s Project Manager Brad Noack for all his assistance in providing all the information needed to carry out this project. There is strong faith in the senior design team being able to help the project sponsor complete this project by collaborating and sharing designs and ideas to restore the bridge.