Integral Abutment Design and Construction: The New England Experience

The use of integral abutments has been expanding in New England. Historically, each of the New England states have used a variety of jointless bridges, such as rigid frames and 3-span structures with cantilevered end spans. Over the past 20 years the construction of “modern” integral abutment bridges has increased throughout the region. The purpose of this paper is to compare the design and construction practices used in each state. The limitations on use, design criteria and methodology and construction details of each are summarized and compared. In addition, issues that were encountered during construction and current performance and conditions are presented. Information on research and bridge instrumentation projects in the region is also summarized. All of the transportation agencies in New England have had favorable experiences with the performance of integral abutment bridges. As has been reported in other publications, there is a wide range of design and construction practices in use around the country. This is also true in New England. This paper will serve to confirm the understanding that regardless of the specific design philosophy and construction details, integral abutments perform well and should be used wherever possible.