HDR’s Latest Experts Talk Explains How to Incorporate Sustainability into Bridge Design
As communities look for ways to be more sustainable and an influx of federal funding that includes new sustainability requirements, now is a good time for owners to review their bridge design process. From planning to concrete selection to construction methods, sustainability can be incorporated into the delivery of new bridges. HDR’s bridge experts have been at the forefront of sustainable bridge design, and they can apply best practices to all types of bridges.
In the latest from HDR’s Experts Talk interview series, two of HDR’s sustainability bridge leaders explain best practices and trends in sustainable bridge building.
Rob Richardson, P.E., ENV SP, is HDR’s West region bridge leader and past bridge and structures sustainability program leader, with 30 years of bridge experience. He believes that sustainable bridge practices begin from the planning stages.
“To build a truly sustainable bridge, the team must think about its lifespan from conception to decommissioning, and consider social equity and justice, as well as the protection of natural resources and addressing climate change through resilient design,” he said.
Don Nguyen, P.E., SE, ENV SP, STP, is HDR’s bridges and structures sustainability program leader. He has experience in project management, design, analysis, construction services, specifications, and inspections. He has the technical expertise to help clients determine the best way to incorporate sustainability in bridge design, from small to signature bridges.
“One way to be good stewards of taxpayer dollars is to design sustainable structures, making the most efficient use of the money allocated,” he said. “By designing structures with the entire life cycle in mind, as well as maintaining existing structures before they dilapidate to the point of no return, we can extend their usable life.”
Read the entire interview about sustainable bridge design.
HDR’s Experts Talk interview series shines a light on various aspects of transportation infrastructure design and delivery. Each subject matter expert offers unique expertise and insights about new and ongoing trends, emerging technologies and the human side of infrastructure.
About HDR
For over a century, HDR has partnered with clients to shape communities and push the boundaries of what’s possible. Our expertise spans more than 11,000 employees in more than 200 locations around the world — and counting. Our engineering, architecture, environmental and construction services bring an impressive breadth of knowledge to every project. Our optimistic approach to finding innovative solutions defined our past and drives our future. For more information, please visit www.hdrinc.com.
