Title
Department of Transportation recommending the Board adopt and authorize the Chair to sign Resolution 188-2021 to change the existing weight limits on Mount Murphy Road Bridge, bridge number 25C0004.
FUNDING: N/A
Body
DISCUSSION / BACKGROUND
On Saturday, September 25, 2021, Mount Murphy Road Bridge over the South Fork American River in Coloma was closed due to severe structural damage caused by a vehicle colliding with a truss column and the diagonal tension bars on the bridge at an excessive rate of speed, significantly deforming a tension bar. Department of Transportation (Transportation) maintenance staff arrived on site shortly thereafter and closed the bridge due to safety concerns. Transportation engineering staff arrived that morning to assist with evaluating the damage and planning for repairs. After inspecting the bridge, it was determined to be unsafe and the bridge remained closed to all traffic. Within two (2) weeks of the accident, assessment of the damage, and repair, Transportation was able to re-open the bridge on October 8, 2021. Through the assessment, it was determined that the posted weight limits should be reduced for continued safety. Per California Vehicle Code 35754, the weight limits can be reduced temporarily for not more than 90 days. Per County Ordinance 12.20.020, County bridge weight limits are set by resolution of the Board. On August 18, 1981, the Board approved Resolution 257-81 establishing previous weight limits of Mount Murphy Road Bridge. The new resolution will replace Resolution 257-81 establishing a new reduced weight limit posting for the bridge.
ALTERNATIVES
The Board could choose not to adopt and authorize the Resolution and allow the bridge weight limits to return to the original limits following the 90 days; however, this could jeopardize continued safety of the bridge.
PRIOR BOARD ACTION
N/A
OTHER DEPARTMENT / AGENCY INVOLVEMENT
County Counsel has reviewed and approved the Resolution.
CAO RECOMMENDATION / COMMENTS
Approve as recommended.
FINANCIAL IMPACT
N/A
CLERK OF THE BOARD FOLLOW UP ACTIONS
1) Clerk of the Board will obtain the Chair’s signature on one (1) original copy of the Resolution.
2) Clerk of the Board will forward one (1) executed copy of the Resolution to Transportation, Fairlane Engineering, attention of Matt Smeltzer.
STRATEGIC PLAN COMPONENT
Infrastructure, Public Safety
CONTACT
Rafael Martinez, Director
Department of Transportation