Castle Creek Bridge rated ‘Fair’ in latest CDOT inspection, no safety concerns
Ray K. Erku/The Aspen Times
The Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) has released its 2024 routine inspection report for the Castle Creek Bridge on Colorado Highway 82, confirming the bridge remains safe for use with no weight restrictions.
The bridge, built in 1961, received an overall condition rating of “Fair,” consistent with prior evaluations.
The inspection, completed on Sept. 25, is part of a regular two-year cycle for CDOT bridges across the state. The next routine inspection for the nearly 64-year-old structure is scheduled for September 2026.
Detailed inspection findings
Bridge inspections are broken into three components: the deck (driving surface), superstructure (girders supporting the deck), and substructure (columns and foundations).
Each component of the Castle Creek Bridge was rated as “Fair,” with inspectors noting typical signs of aging but no immediate structural risks.
• Deck: Inspectors identified moderate cracking with rust staining on approximately 8% of the deck surface.
• Superstructure: Moderate corrosion was observed on less than 10% of the steel girders. Of the bridge’s 7,776 tack welds, 53 were partially cracked, though these welds, used during construction for alignment, hold no structural significance.
• Substructure: Defects included cracking, chipping, and some areas of concrete separation. Several spots have already been repaired, with no loss of structural integrity.
According to CDOT, the bridge’s condition has remained stable for many years, and no significant deterioration is expected before the next inspection cycle.
Understanding a “Fair” rating
Under the National Bridge Inspection Standards (NBIS), bridges are rated on a scale from 0 (Failed) to 9 (Excellent). A “Fair” rating, equivalent to a score of 5 or 6, indicates the structure is sound but may exhibit minor issues such as cracking or corrosion. Bridges rated thus require periodic maintenance to preserve their longevity but do not necessitate immediate repairs.
By contrast, a “Poor” rating (4 or below) signals advanced deterioration that may call for major rehabilitation or replacement, though such bridges remain safe unless flagged for immediate action.
The Castle Creek Bridge underwent significant maintenance in September 2023. This included the installation of a new approach slab, a bridge expansion device designed to handle thermal movements, and updated sidewalk and curb-gutter features.
These enhancements aim to reduce water-related deterioration by preventing leaks into the bridge’s structural components.
CDOT conducts visual inspections for most bridges, employing additional tools and technology as needed for specific concerns. Routine inspections help monitor aging infrastructure and determine whether adjustments to inspection frequency are necessary.
Currently, the Castle Creek Bridge remains on the standard 24-month schedule, reflecting confidence in its structural stability.
CDOT emphasizes that while aging infrastructure presents ongoing challenges, bridges like Castle Creek are safe for public use and are pro-actively maintained to extend their service life.
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