When Veterans Memorial Bridge in Cleveland (OH), originally named the Detroit-Superior Bridge, was renovated, two challenges became important factors in finding a solution.

First, it was determined that a trench drain was needed to run the length of the bridge. The key requirement was that the trench drain remove rainfall from the pavement surface before it ran onto the road surface, thus preventing slip hazards to both motorists and pedestrians.

Secondly, due to construction depth restrictions from the bridge deck, a shallow invert system was needed.

History
When Cleveland’s landmark Veterans Memorial Bridge opened in 1917, it was the longest double-decked, reinforced concrete bridge in the world. The bridge is 3,112 feet long and stretches 5,630 feet. With both an upper and lower deck, the bridge was designed for both vehicular and pedestrian traffic. It was called the “nation’s busiest” bridge in the 1930s with traffic reaching an estimated 70,400 cars a day, However, the lower level was closed in 1955 soon after the closing of the streetcars. The twelve concrete arch approach spans and 591 foot, three-hinged, steel arch, and center span were renovated and widened in the 1960s.

By the 1980s the bridge’s condition had become critical due to a failed paint system and ineffective drainage. The renovation included the replacement of 1.4 million pounds of structural steel and 80 percent of the concrete from the lower deck up. The lower arches and piers were extensively repaired. Construction sequencing was critical to avoid interference with other construction beneath the bridge.

Placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1976, the bridge was renamed in 1989 and then completely restored and illuminated in a blue color at night to become a focal point of the cities entertainment district.

The Solution
An Ohio company was called upon in late 2004 by the Ohio DOT to solve the problem.

ACO SlabDrain H100 was chosen for the solution with its overall depth of just 4 inches. In addition, Type 494 Plastic ADA Compliant Grates were chosen to maximize pedestrian safety and to provide a nice aesthetic appearance. Instead of the traditional bottom drill-outs, this particular SlabDrain H100 system uses customized side outlets, enabling the trench drain to connect to the city’s storm water system.

When shallow installation constraints are of equal or greater concern than hydraulic performance, ACO SlabDrain is a common problem solver. ACO offers SlabDrain in three versions, all neutral (with no slope built in), starting with an overall depth of just over three inces. The H80/H100 channels can be used with up to a C-load classification (depending on grate selection); the H80K/H100K channels can be used up to an E-load classification; and the H100SK can even be used with up to the heavy duty F-load classification. A wide range of grate materials, styles, and slot configurations (including ADA compliant) are available. Every channel in this series is manufactured with a ‘SF Sealant Groove’ cast into the female end that allows for a bead of flexible sealant to be inserted at the joint.  SLDT