CONTINUOUS WELDED PLATE GIRDER SYSTEM SPEEDS UP ELEVATED ROADWAY CONSTRUCTION

The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey is undertaking a major redevelopment program to improve the international image and quality of services at John F. Kennedy International Airport, by the year 2000. One feature of this program is a complex roadway network consisting of about one-quarter-million square feet of elevated structures. Enhanced access to and from the airport from the Van Wyck and JFK Expressways is also planned as part of the redevelopment program. As the airport has to be fully operational during the construction period, it presents interesting challenges to the design engineer in the selection of a structural theme that is the most suited to this project.