Roads, Highways & Bridges Archives - Atlas /project_category/roads-highways-bridges/ Wed, 13 May 2026 03:33:58 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9.4 Caltrans, San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge /project/caltrans-san-francisco-oakland-bay-bridge/ Wed, 20 Aug 2025 18:34:19 +0000 /?post_type=project&p=246881 The east span of San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge (SFOBB) is the world’s largest Self-Anchored Suspension (SAS) Bridge, and is also the first bridge of its kind constructed with a single tower.Ěý Atlas provided materials and coating testing, analysis and inspection services, and oversight for the fabrication and installation of the cable system. Our team was […]

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The east span of San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge (SFOBB) is the world’s largest Self-Anchored Suspension (SAS) Bridge, and is also the first bridge of its kind constructed with a single tower.Ěý Atlas provided materials and coating testing, analysis and inspection services, and oversight for the fabrication and installation of the cable system. Our team was responsible for managing all mechanical, chemical, metallurgical and specialty testing for numerous high-strength anchor rods, suspender ropes and wires, including full-size ultimate capacity testing and fatigue testing. In addition, Atlas performed all inspections on the steel deck including the newly adopted Phased Array Ultrasonic Testing (PAUT) method by AWS welding code. Atlas managed the fabrication of suspender ropes, cable bands, high strength cable band bolts and various cast steel components for the cable system. Our team provided ASNT NDT Level II and III services in UT, MT, and PT testing of cable system cast split collars and zinc saddles and provided summary and analysis reports.

Atlas’s approach to maintaining quality during fabrication of this bridge, which occurred in China, Japan, South Korea, the United Kingdom, and throughout the United States, was based on proactively identifying issues and resolving them as early as possible in the fabrication process. Our structural materials representatives provided field erection support by managing inspection resources and generating analysis reports throughout the cable system component erection and coating application activities. This included erection of cable deviation and jacking saddles, erection of main cable strands, compaction of main cable, wire wrapping of main cable, erection of cable bands, tensioning of cable band bolts, erection and load transfer of suspender ropes and erection of numerous components related to the cable system on the bridge.

For the Skyway portion of the project, Atlas was responsible for the development of inspection protocols, training programs, and the coordination of all materials submittals, RFIs and shop drawings. In addition, the team oversaw all inspection activities related to the steel fabrication being performed. Atlas worked collaboratively with the contractors, designer, and owner to re-engineer systems and implement new processes that resulted in improved quality, fewer repairs and reduced labor costs.Ěý Atlas was also instrumental in the acceptance of the $1.2 Billion project without a single claim. Our team assisted Caltrans in the resolution of over $600 million potential claims by developing, organizing and serving as the Department’s primary presenter on eleven Dispute Review Boards. Our staff developed position papers and formal PowerPoint presentations for each fabrication issue.

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Foresthill Bridge Weld Inspections: Advancing Safety Standards for T-1 Steel /project/foresthill-bridge/ Wed, 20 Aug 2025 18:12:05 +0000 /?post_type=project&p=246880 The post Foresthill Bridge Weld Inspections: Advancing Safety Standards for T-1 Steel appeared first on Atlas.

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The Foresthill Bridge, the tallest in California and fourth highest in the U.S., stretches 2,428 feet across the American River canyon and carries more than 50,000 vehicles daily. Built in 1973 with T-1 steel, the bridge became the focus of a Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) and Caltrans initiative in 2024 to assess fracture-critical welds and guide national safety standards.

Placer County selected Atlas to perform non-destructive testing and documentation on all 288 butt welds. Using a combination of snooper trucks, custom scaffolding, and advanced ultrasonic methods, Atlas inspectors accessed welds more than 700 feet above the canyon while keeping the bridge open to traffic.

Initial results showed a defect rate much higher than the anticipated. Atlas quickly scaled operations, adapting inspection techniques for difficult locations, coordinating with Caltrans and FHWA oversight teams, and delivering real-time data to support timely repair decisions. Despite rain delays and challenging conditions, all work was completed in compliance with AWS D1.5 Bridge Welding Code and without safety incidents.

The findings from this project are already informing FHWA guidance for evaluating T-1 steel structures across the country. For Placer County, the work reinforced immediate safety, while nationally it advanced a proactive approach to bridge management.

 

In the numbers

288Ěý·É±đ±ô»ĺ˛ő

Inspected using advanced non-destructive testing methodsĚý

44 repairsĚý

Welds stabilized through targeted repairs and metallurgical review to ensure long-term safetyĚý

730 feetĚý

Maximum working height during inspectionsĚý

0 safety incidentsĚý

Maintained across months of elevated operations and weather-related delaysĚý

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Caltrans Stop-and-Go Inertial Profiler Evaluation and Certification Support /project/caltrans-stop-and-go-inertial-profiler-evaluation-and-certification-support/ Wed, 21 May 2025 13:53:53 +0000 /?post_type=project&p=246279 As Caltrans explored new methods to improve operator and public safety during inertial profiler (IP) operations, the agency identified Stop-and-Go IPs as a promising advancement. Stop-and-Go Ips is a new technology that collects pavement data at low speeds without shutting down traffic lanes, making testing safer, faster and more efficient. Unlike traditional systems, these units […]

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As Caltrans explored new methods to improve operator and public safety during inertial profiler (IP) operations, the agency identified Stop-and-Go IPs as a promising advancement. Stop-and-Go Ips is a new technology that collects pavement data at low speeds without shutting down traffic lanes, making testing safer, faster and more efficient. Unlike traditional systems, these units can function effectively in variable-speed environments such as urban corridors. However, existing test methods did not account for their use, creating a need for technical expertise and updated certification standards. Ěý

Atlas partnered with Caltrans to provide technical guidance and support in evaluating Stop-and-Go Ips for use in quality control and quality assurance roadway smoothness operations. Selected through a qualifications-based process, Atlas worked collaboratively with Caltrans and industry partners to assess equipment performance across a range of traffic conditions, including stop-and-start movement, braking and acceleration.ĚýĚý

Findings from these efforts informed updates to CT 387, Caltrans’ specification for profiler certification. Revisions addressed key areas such as survey speed variability and performance consistency under typical urban conditions. Atlas supported the implementation of these updates ahead of the 2024 Inertial Profiler Certification Program (IPCP) season.ĚýĚý

Through targeted task orders and focused coordination, the team helped Caltrans align certification standards with emerging technology while maintaining a commitment to safety, reliability and industry engagement.ĚýĚý

Atlas Earns State and National Awards for Roadway Safety Innovation

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US 101, Jefferson and Clallam Counties – Remove Fish Barriers /project/us-101-jefferson-and-clallam-county-remove-fish-barrier/ Tue, 11 Mar 2025 02:26:18 +0000 /?post_type=project&p=245780 Restoring Fish Passage to Support Salmon Recovery The US 101, Jefferson and Clallam counties – Remove Fish Barriers project is part of Washington state’s broader initiative to eliminate barriers restricting salmon migration, reconnecting aquatic habitats and improving long-term ecological health. As part of Washington State Department of Transportation’s (WSDOT) fish passage program, Atlas is providing […]

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Restoring Fish Passage to Support Salmon Recovery

The US 101, Jefferson and Clallam counties – Remove Fish Barriers project is part of Washington state’s broader initiative to eliminate barriers restricting salmon migration, reconnecting aquatic habitats and improving long-term ecological health.

As part of Washington State Department of Transportation’s (WSDOT) fish passage program, Atlas is providing environmental and quality assurance services to support the replacement of six fish barriers along US 101 — especially critical for Clallam and Jefferson counties, as they’re located on the northwestern side of the state on the Olympic Peninsula. The project involves constructing five single-span bridges and a buried box culvert to restore natural stream conditions, allowing fish to access historic breeding and rearing habitats.

Atlas is helping WSDOT manage National Environmental Policy Act documentation, Section 404 and 401 permit applications, and environmental compliance measures, aligning project objectives with state and federal regulations.

The Atlas team is working with WSDOT, the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife and the Jamestown S’Klallam Tribe to integrate permitting strategies with construction schedules so work remains on track while protecting sensitive ecosystems.

In addition to permitting support, Atlas provides fish exclusion, arborist/tree inventory, wetland verification and delineation, and environmental compliance inspections for stormwater management to safeguard sensitive habitats throughout the project.

The team also performs quality assurance and materials testing, overseeing compliance throughout construction so the new structures meet environmental and engineering standards. Fish already are returning to previously blocked streams, demonstrating the benefits of these efforts.

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GDOT I-75/I-575 Northwest Corridor Express Lanes /project/i-75-i-575-northwest-corridor-express-lanes/ Thu, 29 Aug 2024 20:26:54 +0000 /?post_type=project&p=244949 Enhancing Traffic Flow with Innovative Infrastructure Solutions Atlas was the Independent Quality Firm (IQF) and Construction Engineering & Inspection (CEI) services provider on the I-75/I-575 Northwest Corridor Express Lanes project. This $834-million endeavor represents the Georgia Department of Transportation’s (GDOT) first foray into a design-build-finance Public-Private Partnership (P3), marking a significant milestone in the state’s […]

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Enhancing Traffic Flow with Innovative Infrastructure Solutions

Atlas was the Independent Quality Firm (IQF) and Construction Engineering & Inspection (CEI) services provider on the I-75/I-575 Northwest Corridor Express Lanes project. This $834-million endeavor represents the Georgia Department of Transportation’s (GDOT) first foray into a design-build-finance Public-Private Partnership (P3), marking a significant milestone in the state’s history.

This project, one of North America’s largest reverse-flow, managed-lane systems, aimed to enhance traffic flow and reduce congestion in the Atlanta metropolitan area. The client, Northwest Express Roadbuilders (NWER), relied heavily on Atlas to deliver work that met and exceeded GDOT standards.

Our team was integral to the project’s success, providing expert bridge design leadership and overseeing construction engineering, inspection, and materials testing for over 29 miles of toll lanes. We also managed the development of 39 bridges, 82 retaining walls, 48 sound walls, interchange ramps, and drainage structures. Specialized inspectors were deployed to oversee the installation of the Advanced Traffic Management System (ATMS) and intelligent highway systems, ensuring the infrastructure was future-ready.

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IDT I-86/I-15 System Interchange /project/i-86-i-15-system-interchange/ Wed, 21 Aug 2024 15:09:16 +0000 /?post_type=project&p=244882 Modernizing Critical Interchanges for a Robust Transportation Network The reconstruction of the I-86/I-15 system interchange in Pocatello, Idaho, is a monumental infrastructure project aimed at significantly improving connectivity and traffic flow. Managed by Tim Morgan, this project began in June 2022 and is expected to continue into 2025. Atlas is providing inspection and leading all […]

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Modernizing Critical Interchanges for a Robust Transportation Network

The reconstruction of the I-86/I-15 system interchange in Pocatello, Idaho, is a monumental infrastructure project aimed at significantly improving connectivity and traffic flow. Managed by Tim Morgan, this project began in June 2022 and is expected to continue into 2025.

Atlas is providing inspection and leading all materials sampling and testing for the Idaho Transportation Department (ITD). This complex project involves substantial quantities of engineered fill and sub-base, alongside the construction of eight interstate bridges. Some staggering figures from the project include 4,374,794 pounds of steel bridge components, equating to nearly three miles of individual steel plate girders, and 4,408 linear feet of prestressed concrete girders.

The project demands 9,179 feet of steel pile, 286,888 cubic yards of granular borrow, 898,164 cubic yards of excavation, 227,888 tons of ¾” aggregate base, and 109,531 tons of hot mix asphalt (HMA).

Through meticulous planning and execution, Atlas ensures all quality assurance testing is completed to meet the minimum testing requirements of ITD. This project not only represents a significant improvement in regional infrastructure but also underscores Atlas’ commitment to excellence in engineering and construction.

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TxDOT I-35 Northeast Expansion (NEX) South Project /project/i-35-northeast-expansion-nex-south-project/ Wed, 21 Aug 2024 14:56:33 +0000 /?post_type=project&p=244873 Improving Mobility and Safety through Strategic Design-Build The I-35 Northeast Expansion (NEX) South Project is a significant infrastructure development aimed at improving safety, mobility, and congestion management along a critical 4-mile stretch of I-35 in Texas. This project, part of TxDOT’s 2023 Unified Transportation Program, involves the addition of three elevated express lanes, including two […]

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Improving Mobility and Safety through Strategic Design-Build

The I-35 Northeast Expansion (NEX) South Project is a significant infrastructure development aimed at improving safety, mobility, and congestion management along a critical 4-mile stretch of I-35 in Texas. This project, part of TxDOT’s 2023 Unified Transportation Program, involves the addition of three elevated express lanes, including two non-tolled general-purpose lanes and one non-tolled high occupancy vehicle lane, along with direct connectors at I-410 South.

Atlas Technical Consultants serves as the Professional Services Quality Assurance Firm (PSQAF) and Independent Quality Firm (IQF) for the Fluor/Austin Bridge Design-Build Team, also known as Lone Star Constructors. We are spearheading a comprehensive Quality Assurance (QA) program to ensure all services comply with federal and state standards. Our scope of work includes rigorous review of work submittals, audits, and independent QA material testing and inspections.

By managing this QA program, Atlas is helping to ensure that the I-35 NEX South Project not only meets but exceeds the stringent safety and operational standards set forth by TxDOT, ultimately contributing to a more efficient and safer transportation corridor.

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WSDOT SR 520 Replacement Program /project/wsdot-sr-520-replacement-program/ Wed, 14 Aug 2024 15:50:53 +0000 /?post_type=project&p=244865 Transforming Puget Sound Commutes with Precision and Care The SR 520 Bridge Replacement Program is a multibillion-dollar initiative by the Washington State Department of Transportation to enhance safety, reduce congestion, and improve mobility across the SR 520 corridor. Key components include the world’s longest floating bridge, HOV lanes, and a bicycle/pedestrian path, all designed with […]

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Transforming Puget Sound Commutes with Precision and Care

The SR 520 Bridge Replacement Program is a multibillion-dollar initiative by the Washington State Department of Transportation to enhance safety, reduce congestion, and improve mobility across .

Key components include the world’s longest floating bridge, HOV lanes, and a bicycle/pedestrian path, all designed with environmental stewardship and community engagement in mind.

This project will boost mobility between Seattle and the Eastside while setting new standards for sustainable infrastructure development. We’re providing extensive Quality Assurance (QA) testing and inspection services throughout the corridor.

Key Contributions:

  • QA Testing and Inspection: Mobilization and daily operation of on-site testing laboratories for soils, aggregates, and concrete at each project site. QA data management and reporting, supported by multiple teams of inspectors and testers.
  • Pontoon Fabrication Plant Support: Atlas assisted with the start-up of the Quality Assurance Program, including the on-site satellite materials testing laboratory for high-strength concrete production and materials tracking documentation.
  • Environmental and Materials Tracking: Atlas supports environmental stormwater management and materials tracking to ensure contract compliance.

Atlas ensures that all QA processes adhere to strict contractor schedules, providing round-the-clock support with 25 inspectors/testers working in 24/7 shifts to meet project milestones efficiently.

Specific Segments:

  • SR 520 Pontoons Construction ($515 Million): Implemented Quality Assurance Program for high-strength concrete production and materials tracking.
  • SR 520 Floating Bridge and Landings ($850 Million): Provided material laboratory testing services, special inspections, and multi-shift QC inspections.
  • SR 520 Eastside Transit & HOV Project ($434 Million): Managed QA documentation, environmental work plans, and special inspections.
  • SR 520 West Approach Bridge North ($264 Million): Provided initial environmental inspections and stormwater management.

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Harbor Bridge /project/harbor-bridge/ Wed, 16 Jan 2019 17:20:00 +0000 https://www.atlastechnical.us/?post_type=project&p=7295 The Harbor Bridge Replacement Project marks a transformative investment in mobility, commerce and long-term resilience for South Texas. Led by the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) and FlatironDragados, the project replaces the 1959 through-arch bridge with a concrete cable-stayed structure designed to meet modern freight demands and improve safety for everyday travelers. Spanning 6.44 miles, […]

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The Harbor Bridge Replacement Project marks a transformative investment in mobility, commerce and long-term resilience for South Texas. Led by the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) and FlatironDragados, the project replaces the 1959 through-arch bridge with a concrete cable-stayed structure designed to meet modern freight demands and improve safety for everyday travelers.

Spanning 6.44 miles, the project includes the design and construction of the new Harbor Bridge and the reconstruction of key segments of US 181, I-37 and Crosstown Expressway. The six-lane bridge features three lanes in each direction, full shoulders, a center median barrier and a 10-foot-wide shared-use path for pedestrians and cyclists. Complementary features include LED lighting, a public plaza, and xeriscape landscaping that reflect the region’s identity and climate.

As the project’s Independent Quality Firm (IQF), Atlas played a central role in upholding quality standards throughout the design-build delivery process. Our team provided third-party oversight for 17 component types sourced from more than 15 fabrication sites across the U.S. and internationally. Atlas developed custom Inspection and Testing Plans (ITPs) to support traceability, ensure alignment with TxDOT specifications and enable seamless integration during construction.

With the new bridge open and final phase preparations underway, Atlas continues to support the project through ongoing inspection services as demolition of the original truss bridge nears and adjacent roadway reconstruction begins.

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