Ocean Avenue Bridge

The new bridge was to be built on the same footprint of the current bridge. The height of the new bridge was designed for an additional 11 feet of bridge clearance, allowing increased marine passage while reducing bridge opening cycles by 40%. In turn, vehicle traffic flow would improve, helping the local economy and reducing emissions. The project is also a one-of-a-kind double span drawbridge, utilizing electric motors instead of hydraulic power. They are believed to be faster and lower maintenance. The bridge spans the Intracoastal Waterway and is less than one-quarter mile from the Atlantic Ocean. The harsh and humid, salty environment is a challenge for any type of metal to avoid corrosion. Plain or painted steel is no match for this environment. Hot-dip galvanizing was chosen as the corrosion protection package for its economic benefit as well as its long lasting corrosion control. The protection galvanizing provides for the powder coated and painted pieces will minimize the amount of maintenance required and the repainting schedule, therefore drastically reducing the life cycle cost incurred.

The longevity of hot-dip galvanizing with little maintenance was a key factor.

When it came to the traffic barrier, Wyoming rail was chosen. Wyoming rail is known to be some of the best rail for scenic views due to its small horizontal profile. It presents the smallest obstruction to travelers. This TL4 rated railing derives its strength from the structural integrity of the steel design. In order to maintain the rail's safety and integrity against salt spray, corrosion control is vital. Paint alone would not be able to stand against this harsh environment. Hot-dip galvanizing was chosen for several reasons. The longevity of hot-dip galvanizing with little maintenance was a key factor. The corrosion protection performance of hot-dip galvanizing is unparalleled on steel assemblies and members such as is incorporated in this bridge design.

The traffic railing was powder coated over the galvanized coating to enhance the aesthetic appeal of the bridge while significantly increasing the corrosion resistance. The stair rails were painted a safety yellow over the galvanized coating to increase their visibility and their use by patrons and workers utilizing the stairs. The fishing pier rails were also galvanized for long term protection with no maintenance. The interior of the bridge is accessible through four, three-level staircases. Again, paint alone would be no match for this damp, salty environment.

Mahoney Supply reviewed the designs and worked with the galvanizer to fabricate the rails and members in a manner consistent with ASTM A385. This minimized the areas susceptible to air chokes and bare spots, further decreasing the likelihood of corrosion development. The corrosion control properties of hot-dip galvanizing will assist in maintaining the integrity of this bridge and providing safe passage to travelers for decades to come.