Construction of the Linn Cove Bridge

Abstract

The Linn Cove Bridge is a medium-span, segmental bridge that has been used to solve an unusual environmental problem on a scenic mountain highway in North Carolina. The resulting structure features curves of 76 m (250 ft) radius and 0.1 m/m superelevation. The site is quite remote and extremely rough. A number of unusual methods were used to construct the bridge. A highly adjustable form was built and performed well; a small-volume concrete-mixing truck was adapted to the project; and a stiff-leg crane was modified to be more mobile so it could be used to erect the segments. The foundations were constructed using reinforced "microshafts." Several other innovations are outlined in the paper.