To conduct fundamental research into the structural behavior of curved steel bridges in order to advance the state of the art, and to collect adequate information to develop and clarify design specifications.

COMPLETE. Synthesis of research on curved bridges is complete and has been published titled, "Curved Steel Bridge Research Project, Interim Report I: Synthesis" FHWA-RD-93-129. The report is available from the FHWA Report Center. Draft reports on 'construction issues', 'details', and 'serviceability' have also been completed and are under review. Large scale experimental testing of curved beams, at the FHWA's Structures Laboratory, is ongoing. To date, 7 full size curved beams have been tested to failure under near pure bending. Data analysis is ongoing. Series of full size specimens will also be tested under high shear/low moment, and high shear/high moment loadings. These tests are being conducted to develop design equations for predicting shear and bending strength of curved bridge members. The results of this study will be used towards the development of a Load and Resistance Factor Design Specification for Horizontally Curved Steel Bridges currently in progress under NCHRP Project 12-52.?The final reports completed by the HDR are still in draft form. The project continues with our own FHWA funds and has been expanded to study more issues on curved girder. (updated 6/22/01)