Barrick Energy retained Associated Engineering to complete an inspection, load rating and bridge assessment for the Little Smoky River Bridge, located on Township Road 690A, south of Valleyview, Alberta.
A 2010 inspection determined that there had been ongoing deterioration of the structure since the previous inspection in 2000. As a result, Associated Engineering recommended that Barrick Energy undertake a Load Rating to determine limits for safe loads to cross the bridge, as well as a Bridge Assessment to establish a plan for the future of this crossing The bridge was rated for 2, 3 and 4 axle truck models (CS1, CS2 & CS3) in accordance with Alberta Transportation standards.
Associated Engineering provided recommendations to the bridge postings taking into account the bridge condition and the speed restriction on the bridge. The completed Bridge Assessment provided options and recommendations for bridge repairs, rehabilitation and replacement.