Extending the life of this New York City landmark through Super-Slab for a historic bridge repair.

Project Details

• Owner: New York Department of Transportation (DOT)
• Engineer: URS
• Contractor: Skanska/Koch/Ferreira
• Project Completion: 2014
• Scope: 877 Super-Slab®

Project Overview

Fort Miller was selected to support the essential historic bridge repair of the landmark Brooklyn Bridge, supplying 877 precast Super-Slab® panels to reinforce and preserve the bridge’s approach ramps.

With a focus on durability and historic preservation, Fort Miller delivered solutions that honor the bridge’s original architecture while ensuring modern performance standards.

Scope and Details 

This historic bridge repair project required precise engineering and coordination to maintain the integrity of the original architecture while addressing the needs of a modern, heavily trafficked roadway. Fort Miller’s Super-Slab® panels replaced aging concrete, alleviating structural stress. 

In addition to the demolition and replacement of ramp decks, the reconstruction included:

• Advanced Base Layer Preparation: A specialized stone-extended, rapid-setting grout base was applied to stabilize the old fill beneath the bridge, offering a reliable foundation for the waterproofing membrane and slab installation.
• Waterproofing and Drainage System: Installed beneath each slab to protect the stone arches from water damage, this system is critical to maintaining the bridge’s historic elements.
• Electrical Conduit Installation: Incorporated under the slabs to streamline maintenance access and prevent disruptions to traffic flow and bridge functionality.

With precise scheduling due to heavy traffic demands, ramp deck demolition and replacement were completed in a narrow 40-hour window to limit disruptions. Temporary wood-and-steel plate panels were used during installation, allowing for efficient removal and reinstallation as needed for each stage of construction.

Impact and Innovation 

This historic bridge repair has been instrumental in extending the life and usability of the bridge while honoring its architectural legacy. By utilizing Fort Miller’s innovative precast Super-Slab® technology, the project achieved:

• Preservation and Performance: The project not only meets modern safety standards but preserves key historical elements, a testament to Fort Miller’s commitment to quality, longevity, and innovation.
• Efficient, Sustainable Construction: The rapid installation process and specialized materials minimized traffic disruptions, saving time and reducing environmental impact through reduced project duration.

In collaboration with historical preservation experts, civil engineers, and construction teams, Fort Miller has helped to ensure that this key Manhattan-Brooklyn connection will continue to serve as a functional and cultural landmark for future generations.