One of the reasons for the $6.4 billion investment in the new eastern span of the Bay Bridge was to ensure the safety of the bridge in the even of a large earthquake.
According to an article by Jaxon Van Derbeken, "mounting revelations of construction problems are calling into question whether the new [eastern span of the Bay Bridge] can withstand the Big One."
Bad news has followed the span since it opened in September 2013, mostly having to do with poor construction and project oversight. All that bad news brings the eastern span to this point:
"Tests showing signs of saltwater intrusion into the bridge tower’s foundation and damage to its anchor rods could be the most serious seismic issues for the project. But they aren’t the only ones. Substandard welds on the suspension span’s decks and water leaks near rods that secure the main cable also trouble engineers outside Caltrans who are experts in bridge construction and integrity."
The article includes a lot more detail about the defects and challenges facing engineers. The article also calls on numerous experts to offer their opinions about the safety of the bridge in the event of an earthquake.
Along with the recent news coverage, the San Francisco Chronicle printed an op-ed [paywall] calling for local officials to turn over responsibility for the testing and repairs necessary to ensure the bridge's safety to the federal Department of Transportation.
FULL STORY: Plague of problems puts Bay Bridge seismic safety in question
Report: Caltrans Systematically Quelled Bay Bridge Safety Concerns
Instagram images and group bike rides now celebrate the Bay Bridge’s eastern span, but the bridge’s long construction process was a constant source of concern. A new report details what went wrong to (hopefully) prevent future mistakes.
The Many Ongoing Public Transportation Projects of the Bay Area
The San Francisco Chronicle offers a round-up of 11 big transit projects, by Caltrans, BART, SFMTA, and others, making progress around the bay.
Planning Underway for New Bay Bridge Bike Path, and a Second Transbay BART Tube
In a distant and expensive future, there are two new ways to get across the San Francisco Bay without a car. One will have a much better view.
Analysis: Cybertruck Fatality Rate Far Exceeds That of Ford Pinto
The Tesla Cybertruck was recalled seven times last year.
National Parks Layoffs Will Cause Communities to Lose Billions
Thousands of essential park workers were laid off this week, just before the busy spring break season.
Retro-silient?: America’s First “Eco-burb,” The Woodlands Turns 50
A master-planned community north of Houston offers lessons on green infrastructure and resilient design, but falls short of its founder’s lofty affordability and walkability goals.
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Analysis: Cybertruck Fatality Rate Far Exceeds That of Ford Pinto
The Tesla Cybertruck was recalled seven times last year.
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