The City of Decatur faced a challenge with an existing bridge on Meadowlark Drive over Caterpillar Ditch that was structurally deficient. To address this issue, the city decided to replace the bridge using Motor Fuel Tax (MFT) funds. Clark Dietz was selected to design the new structure, ensuring it would meet the required hydraulic design criteria and adhere to IDOT requirements as well as AASHTO LRFD bridge design specifications.

The project involved approximately 100 feet of roadway between Whippoorwill and Hummingbird Drives, where the waterway crossing was located. Clark Dietz provided professional and structural engineering services for the design of a precast double box culvert, which included two main phases: Phase I and Phase II.

Phase I included surveying the site, conducting a hydraulic analysis using data from a FEMA flood insurance study, and preparing the necessary permits for construction in a waterway, including the Army Corps Joint Application and a statewide permit.

Phase II focused on the final design, where Clark Dietz prepared the construction plans, specifications, and cost estimates for the culvert and the rebuilding of the roadway. This design also included structural engineering services for cast-in-place end walls for the culvert.

Clark Dietz Added Value:
During the design process, Clark Dietz determined that the existing bridge could be replaced by a precast box culvert of a shorter length, reducing costs and eliminating the need for biennial inspections. The team also evaluated roadside safety and recommended appropriate railings, considering the pedestrian use of the roadway.

Through careful analysis and design, Clark Dietz provided a more efficient, cost-effective solution for the City of Decatur.