This study will conduct the in-service evaluation of a hybrid composite-beam  bridge system that will be constructed beginning in early 2013. The new bridge will replace an existing structure on Route 205 over Tide Mill Stream in Westmoreland County in the Virginia Department of Transportation’s Fredericksburg District.

The hybrid composite-beam was developed as a lightweight sustainable solution with the potential to provide more rapid construction for short- to medium-span bridges.

The primary objectives of this project are to characterize the in-service behavior of the structure and develop recommendations for routine inspection and long-term performance evaluation.

Specific activities to accomplish this objective will include installing instrumentation during fabrication and construction of the bridge and conducting a live-load field test of the structure once it is built.