ODOT has formalized a process, referred to as bridge upcycling, to help local governments access used bridge beams for repurposing in their projects.
It represents the ultimate in recycling–taking used bridge beams from a state highway project and repurposing them on local roads, explained Warren Schlatter, Defiance County engineer, who employed the concept prior to the bridge upcycling program.
Mr. Schlatter has rehabilitated three bridges using upcycled bridge beams and plans to revamp more.
Now that ODOT has a formalized program, he has enrolled and is an advocate for its use.
“From the taxpayer’s perspective, we should absolutely be looking at this,” he said.
Mark Eicher, Muskingum County engineer, agreed. The county has been upcycling bridge beams for several years and estimates a minimum of $50,000 is saved in each instance.
“With modifications, the beams are effectively used at a benefit to the county,” he noted.
