This document is about bridge design, including structure configuration, clearance requirements, aesthetic guidelines, structure investigation, and selection report requirements.
The CDOT Bridge Design Manual (February 2023) provides guidelines for the preliminary design phase of bridge projects. It emphasizes evaluating structure layout alternatives based on economic, engineering, environmental, and aesthetic factors to minimize revisions later. Key considerations include horizontal and vertical alignments, ensuring abutments and piers optimize span lengths, and planning for future bridge widenings where appropriate.
The required minimum vertical clearance is 16.50 ft.
The minimum freeboard should be 2 ft.
The clear walkway shall be 5 ft.