PROJECT OF THE YEAR: Transportation Category

Rainbow Arch Bridge

Aurora, Colorado

Submitted by Blazer Structures

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this 11-span arch bridge was built in 1922, and served as a major thoroughfare for over 55 years before being converted into a pedestrian and cyclist access to parks on both sides of the South Platte River. When built, it represented a major departure from conventional practice, incorporating structural steel to interact with the concrete. The reconstruction presented the contractor with a tight construction schedule and the challenges of complying with environmental concerns, access restrictions due to load limits, severe weather, and even rattlesnakes warming themselves on the deck. Through innovative approaches such as precasting components and the use of alternative equipment, the project was completed successfully and the bridge restored to its original beauty.