This is the pilot bridge replacement project for the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission’s (PTC) Bridge Information Modeling (BIM) and Digital Delivery Program, which includes developing a 3D model. The existing bridge was a single-span steel beam bridge, and we are proposing a two-span composite prestressed spread box-beam bridge. This project is part of a $1.5 million open-end engineering services contract.

RETTEW is using Civil3D, Inventor, Revit, and other Autodesk software to develop 3D modeling of both the roadway and the bridge. Standard 2D plan sets are still part of the deliverables, but the plans are derived from the 3D model, and the 3D structure model will replace standard 2D structure plans as part of the contract documents. RETTEW is coordinating with both PTC and the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) throughout design engineering to develop a review process for the 3D model, since ownership of the bridge will be turned over to PennDOT after construction. RETTEW is also responsible for evaluating and providing feedback on PTC’s draft engineering and technology standards for the BIM and Digital Delivery Program, and for evaluating revisions to the standard contract documents and bidding process to address inclusion of the 3D model.