A bridge survey is a type of construction survey that examines a proposed construction or reconstruction site of a bridge. It typically involves a combination of visual inspections, measurements, and data analysis to assess the structural integrity and safety of a bridge. It involves the establishment of a baseline in relation to a legal centerline and development of an offset scheme.
The goal of a bridge survey is to identify any potential safety hazards or structural deficiencies that could compromise the bridge’s ability to safely support vehicular or pedestrian traffic. This includes assessing the condition of the bridge’s superstructure, substructure, and foundation, as well as its overall alignment, clearance, and drainage.
The results of a bridge survey can be used to guide ongoing maintenance and repair efforts, as well as inform decisions related to bridge rehabilitation or replacement. In some cases, a bridge survey may also be required by law as part of routine safety inspections or following a major weather event or other disaster.