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The main objective of this research was to assess the seismic vulnerability of typical pre-1975 WSDOT prestressed concrete multi-column bent bridges. Additional objectives included determining the influence of soil-structure-interaction on the bridge assessment and evaluating the effects of non-traditional retrofit schemes on the global response of the bridges. Overall this research highlighted the vulnerability of non-monolithic bridge decks and shear-dominating bridge columns in pre-1975 WSDOT prestressed concrete multi-column bent bridges as well as the importance of including soil-structure-interaction, calibrating the force/displacement characterization of the columns to experimental test data and detailed modeling of the bridges such as expansion joint/girder interaction. In the end, the seismic assessment of bridges is a cost/efficiency issue. Each bridge is different, therefore, investing in improved analyses up front will enable an efficient use of the limited funds for bridge improvement, resulting in a significant savings overall.
This paper presents a review of the various seismic retrofitting techniques currently being carried out for bridge structures. After evaluating the performance of existing bridges in past earthquakes and their most common modes of failure, a systematic review of bridge retrofit is discussed. It includes the retrofit of foundations, concrete columns, bent cap beams and beam-column joints, as well as steel bracing. The use of restrainers is discussed as well as the possible improvements to bearing supports. Examples of bridge retrofit practice in California and British Columbia are presented.