PHILADELPHIA - BostonChron -- Under tight budget, permit, and road-widening constraints, CASTLE was contracted to repair the two-lane Old Easton Road Bridge with a stronger structure. The original bridge showed increased deterioration and scour issues. Due to the cost of a complete replacement, including similar type foundations and permit restrictions, Castle developed an alternate design utilizing a portion of the existing foundations that were within Plumstead's budget.

CASTLE addressed these challenges as they have with several other projects and developed a creative solution. They seamlessly integrated the new bridge into the surroundings in the same footprint as the original bridge. To maintain the integrity and character of the environment, the new structure incorporated painted railings and stone facing to give the new bridge a centuries-old appearance. By reinforcing existing stone abutments and wingwalls, adapting for current utility pipes, and minimizing earthwork, CASTLE saved the township money on the project.

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Not only is the new bridge aesthetically appealing, but the innovative updates and strength reinforcements also provide scour protection and durability for the foreseeable future.

All of these factors contributed to PCI's (Precast/Prestressed Concrete Institute) decision to award WJ Castle the Best Transportation Award. Founded in 1954, PCI is committed to the development, maintenance, design, and construction of precast concrete structures. Working in conjunction with industries and research laboratories around the world, PCI sets the standards in precast/prestressed material safety, education, codes, and design.

"WJ Castle, PE & Associates, PC is honored to receive this award from PCI. This was a TEAM effort by our engineering personnel, from the field inspection through final design. This project shows how our company thinks outside of the box and the award proves that statement. Based upon our design, we saved Plumstead Township, Bucks County, Pennsylvania a few hundred thousand dollars in construction." ~ William J. Castle, owner of WJ Castle, PE & Assoc., PC

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The new Easton Road Bridge was completed in July 2020, ahead of schedule and under budget.

WJ Castle, PE & Assoc., PC is a team of marine structural engineers and marine construction personnel, providing services to engineering companies and contractors in need of underwater inspection, design, or construction services.

For 35+ years, W.J. Castle is well known for our marine engineering expertise. Our team includes Structural and Civil Engineers who offer complete structural designs for building, replacing, or repairing: bridges, piers, docks, bulkheads, underwater cables, and more.

Hydro-Marine Construction, founded in 1997, has enabled the CASTLE to provide construction and design/build services using the CASTLE's team of highly trained personnel.

https://www.wjcastlegroup.com/