Sensor checks, cleaning on tap for new 35W bridge

Bridge sensor
A cluster of three of the many sensors installed in the wire mesh of the new 35W bridge that measure and send data to civil engineering researchers.
Photo Courtesy of MnDOT

The Minnesota Department of Transportation wants to know how one of the state's newest and most high-tech bridges is holding up.

Tests are scheduled for this weekend on the Interstate 35W bridge in Minneapolis. The almost 2-year-old bridge replaced the Mississippi River span that collapsed in August 2007.

Weather permitting, transportation workers plan to use trucks and more than 500 built-in sensors to see how the bridge handles loads. The measurements figure into decisions regarding maintenance.

Crews are also planning to clean the deck, do some sealing and check on pavement markings.

(Copyright 2010 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

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