Category:503 Bridge Approach Slabs

A bridge approach slab is used to provide a smooth and structurally sound transition from the pavement to the bridge. The area between the roadway embankment and the bridge end bent frequently receives inadequate compaction or a different degree of compaction than the roadway fill. Another cause of differential settlement between roadway pavement and the bridge structure is subsidence of compressible original soil layers under the new approach roadway fill's weight, while the bridge is normally founded on more unyielding foundation of solid rock or piling. In order to prevent pavement failure, an unacceptable differential elevation between the pavement and the bridge pavement, and excessive loading on the end bent, a bridge approach slab is constructed to span from the end bent over the roadway embankment.

Bridge approach slabs are included in the bridge plans prepared by the Bridge Division. Payment for bridge approach slab is included in bridge estimated quantities.

503.1 Major Roads

In site-specific circumstances, the project core team may decide a bridge approach slab is not needed on a major road. In those cases, a design exception is required. When the decision is made to include a bridge approach slab in the project plans, Construction personnel will not underrun the item nor will the contractor be allowed to remove it by a Value Engineering proposal.

503.2 Minor Roads

In light of their expense, bridge approach slabs on minor roads have shown less than satisfactory in-service performance. In keeping with the true purpose and need of the project, bridges on minor roads will be constructed without bridge approach slabs. In order to maintain an acceptably smooth pavement, maintenance forces may need to fill or patch pavement adjacent to the bridge end as settlement occurs.

503.3 Drainage

When a bridge approach slab is included in the plans, the roadway items of curb and drain basin as shown on Standard Plan 609.40 are also specified. When the bridge approach slab is not needed, a method of moving drainage away from the bridge end will be necessary. In most cases, Type A curb and drain basin will be sufficient. The project core team is to make recommendations for handling drainage as necessary.

503.4 Construction Inspection Guidance for Sec 503

Material (for Sec 503.2) The concrete mix for bridge approach slabs shall be in accordance with Sec 501 of the Standard Specifications. The bridge approach slab shall be constructed of pavement concrete or an approved Class B-1.

Construction Requirements (for Sec 503.3) This item is not subject to the Quality Control/Quality Assurance (QC/QA) requirements of Sec 502 of the Standard Specifications. Particular attention must be given to the grade of the side forms to obtain the desired riding quality. Hand finish methods, as defined by Sec 502.4.8.6, may be used for the bridge approach slab. The bridge approach slab shall be cured and sealed in accordance with Sec 703 of the Standard Specifications for bridge decks.

503.5 Maintenance Activities

See Mud Jacking Bridge Approach for additional information.