After being deemed structurally deficient due to its age and deteriorating condition, Quimby Bridge — a concrete encased steel beam bridge built in 1915 on Pusey Mill Road over the east branch of Big Elk Creek — was in need of replacement. One of the many challenges surrounding this site was its environmental sensitivity, including being home to the endangered bog turtle and holding a high value stream designation that required special permitting. Also unique to the project were the special accommodations made for protecting the neighboring boarded horses, each worth more than $1 million.

After completing the environmental permitting, RETTEW’s bridge engineers got to work and proposed a precast-concrete arch structure, an economic and practical design known for its durability and ease of construction. Using an accelerated construction method, the bridge took only three months to construct, which significantly minimized impacts to the local community. Not only does the new structure provide the County a maintenance-free service life of 100 years, but the new architectural surface treatment mimics the original stone aesthetic of the bridge and delivers a traditional appeal that fits seamlessly with the surrounding area. RETTEW’s construction cost estimate was within one-half percent of the low bid, and our quality plan set resulted in no change orders and only one question from the contractor during construction — a success story from start to finish.