Tweet
Ferrymead Bridge has had further damage as a result of the 13 June earthquake.
However, it has been assessed as safe and is open to traffic.
The damage to the bridge was caused by liquefaction - liquefied soil flowed towards the low point in the bed of the river and caused pressure on the bridge’s foundations.
Drivers are encouraged to take care in their approach to the bridge as there is also damage to the road, drive to the conditions, and stay within the speed restrictions.
Prior to the 13 June earthquake the contractor reinstalled the temporary stagings (platforms for cranes) upstream and downstream of the bridge. These stagings were upgraded and performed very well during the earthquake on Monday. In the event of an emergency they can be easily upgraded by installing approaches to allow use as alternative vehicle access if required.
Council staff, Opus Consultants and the contractor HEB Structures are investigating the best option to ensure long term access for local residents and visitors. A timeline for completion of this work is not yet known.
Ferrymead Bridge had suffered significant damage in the 22 February earthquake, as did the new construction works and the temporary staging. However, there have been a number of checks and balances put in place to ensure public safety:
* The bridge was inspected and tested to ensure it had adequate strength before being opened to light vehicles.
* The bridge continues to be monitored for any further movement or damage.
* A 24 hour security presence was in place to prevent heavy vehicles using the bridge while repair were carried out.
* A bracing system was installed to prevent further movement of the pier columns.
*The bridge was jacked back to close to its original profile and then reopened to heavy traffic.
However, it has been assessed as safe and is open to traffic.
The damage to the bridge was caused by liquefaction - liquefied soil flowed towards the low point in the bed of the river and caused pressure on the bridge’s foundations.
Drivers are encouraged to take care in their approach to the bridge as there is also damage to the road, drive to the conditions, and stay within the speed restrictions.
Prior to the 13 June earthquake the contractor reinstalled the temporary stagings (platforms for cranes) upstream and downstream of the bridge. These stagings were upgraded and performed very well during the earthquake on Monday. In the event of an emergency they can be easily upgraded by installing approaches to allow use as alternative vehicle access if required.
Council staff, Opus Consultants and the contractor HEB Structures are investigating the best option to ensure long term access for local residents and visitors. A timeline for completion of this work is not yet known.
Ferrymead Bridge had suffered significant damage in the 22 February earthquake, as did the new construction works and the temporary staging. However, there have been a number of checks and balances put in place to ensure public safety:
* The bridge was inspected and tested to ensure it had adequate strength before being opened to light vehicles.
* The bridge continues to be monitored for any further movement or damage.
* A 24 hour security presence was in place to prevent heavy vehicles using the bridge while repair were carried out.
* A bracing system was installed to prevent further movement of the pier columns.
*The bridge was jacked back to close to its original profile and then reopened to heavy traffic.
