VRX, Inc. designed 7 bridge replacements as a subconsultant on this TxDOT Bryan District PS&E project.

The project entailed 4.123 miles of Old San Antonio Road from 0.3 miles west of FM 1687 to 0.76 miles east of the Brazos County Line. VRX was to prepare the plans to construct the rehabilitation of the existing road, consisting of grading, widening, structures, base, surface, signs and pavement markings.

The initial concept was to widen Old San Antonio Road and replace the bridges during phased construction. However, six months into the design phase, the concept was changed to Accelerated Bridge Construction (ABC) without adjusting the schedule, requiring design from layouts to final design in approximately four (4) months. Because the ABC concept was relatively new in Texas, VRX Project Manager Gail Rodriguez, PE, conducted extensive research into the requirements of ABC to meet the design challenges.

Throughout the design, Gail coordinated with other designers, contractors, crane companies, the TxDOT District and the TxDOT Bridge Division. The structural units to construct the bridges were standardized as much as possible for consistency and ease of construction. For example, Gail and her team developed the superstructure and substructure precast elements concept (except foundation) by utilizing as much of TxDOT standards to streamline the design and reduce construction cost. The design accounted for the significantly different construction methodology from typical bridge construction.

Now during the construction phase, Gail is responding to all Requests for Information, Requests for Approval and Shop Drawing Submittals within 24 hours. Because this is a relatively new construction method, VRX has met with the contractor and TxDOT to finalize approvals. Gail has been committed to providing timely responses to help expedite the process. VRX team members included MD Riaz Sultan, PE, Abu Zobayed, PE, and Samir Bougacha, PE.