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Richland County staff: campus bridges structurally deficient; two-bridge replacement estimated about $927,000
Summary
County staff presented a hydraulic study recommending single-span bridge replacements for two structurally deficient campus bridges; consultant and DNR recommended single-span design, and staff were directed to get cost and timeline details through an existing master agreement.
At a Richland County committee meeting, county staff member Josh presented a hydraulic analysis that found two campus bridges are structurally deficient and likely cannot support heavy construction equipment needed for campus demolition or redevelopment.
Josh said he contracted consultant MSA to perform the 46-page hydraulic study and that MSA, together with the Department of Natural Resources (DNR), recommended replacing the existing single‑span structures with a single‑span bridge rather than box culverts or sectional aluminum structures. “The cost for said bridges are $463,800 a piece,” Josh said, adding that the two‑bridge in‑house estimate would total about $927,000 and that those figures are rough estimates for a likely 2027 contract year.
The analysis presented three structural options: sectional aluminum plates (which Josh said do not meet hydraulic or size parameters), concrete twin‑cell box culverts (which do not meet a 100‑year flood standard), and single‑span bridges (which DNR and MSA favored because they better preserve fish habitat and future stream management). The presentation noted that adding sidewalks could eliminate the need to retain a separate pedestrian walking bridge but would increase costs if aesthetics are preserved.
Committee members discussed staging and access during construction, with one member noting it would be prudent to keep two crossing points so one bridge could remain open while the other is worked on. Josh said existing posted weight limits for the bridges are low (about 10 tons) and that MSA recommends replacement in the near term because of concrete deterioration and corroded rebar.
Committee members directed staff to pursue next steps but did not take a formal vote to fund replacements. Josh said he can use an existing master agreement with MSA to streamline engineering and project management work without a separate RFP, and he will report back with a procurement timeline and updated cost estimates for the committee to consider. Josh told the group engineering and advertisement work could begin this year, with construction possible during next year’s season if the committee proceeds.
The committee also discussed demolition and pedestrian‑bridge removal estimates. Josh said removal of an existing pedestrian bridge was estimated at about $20,000; retaining a separate walking bridge while replacing vehicle bridges would add a different cost (roughly $70,000 to $175,000 depending on scope), all described in the MSA estimates as subject to change once the project is bid.
No formal appropriation or contract award occurred at the meeting; the committee asked staff to gather firm numbers, confirm design and permitting needs with DNR and DOT, and return with a timeline and pricing for future committee consideration.
