Louisiana Transportation Research Center

🎙Catch up on episodes of The Driving Force featuring DOTD's Structures Maintenance and Inspection Section 🌉

Join Todd and Garrett as they sat down with (left to right) Bridge Maintenance Administrator Haylye Brown, Bridge Inspection Engineer Stephanie Doolittle, Maintenance Repair Engineer Bradley Mistich, Louisiana Roadside Development Manager Ryan Duhon, Load Rating Engineer Billy Metcalf, and Bridge Engineer Jason Michiels.

Throughout this five-part series, the team discusses bridge inspections, structural repairs and rehabilitation, roadside maintenance, load ratings, and the operation of Louisiana’s 100 movable bridges. From inspecting nearly 13,000 bridges to tackling unique engineering challenges, these conversations highlight the people and expertise behind Louisiana’s transportation infrastructure.

🔗 Listen to the series:

• EP 34: Bridge Inspections with Haylye Brown & Stephanie Doolittle – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UuHfYX6qRXc&list=PLszdlMgAXn4CavAHj8yrNUBg1KAMEiNov&index=5

• EP 35: Bridge Repair & Rehabilitation with Haylye Brown & Bradley Mistich – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2X8DbR5VzAI&list=PLszdlMgAXn4CavAHj8yrNUBg1KAMEiNov&index=4

• EP 36: Roadside Maintenance & Beautification with Haylye Brown & Ryan Duhon – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O6YN3gTITWE&list=PLszdlMgAXn4CavAHj8yrNUBg1KAMEiNov&index=3

• EP 37: Bridge Load Ratings with Haylye Brown & Billy Metcalf – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FBXhJ7TuC38&list=PLszdlMgAXn4CavAHj8yrNUBg1KAMEiNov&index=2

• EP 38: Louisiana’s Movable Bridges with Haylye Brown & Jason Michiels – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QPqxLgfRyHo&list=PLszdlMgAXn4CavAHj8yrNUBg1KAMEiNov&index=1

📢 New Research: “Skew Detection System Replacement on Vertical Lift Bridges (Phase III)"

Phase III of this study will resolve issues identified during Phase II and integrate recommended new technologies into the existing Ellender Ferry Bridge control system. The project will further improve and refine the preferred alternative skew monitoring and detection technologies, integrating them into the existing control system and proving their operability and long-term reliability at the bridge.

🔗: https://new.express.adobe.com/webpage/frMIdOPiaWuNk

📢 New Research: “Evaluation of RAP Fractionation and Its Impact on Mixture Performance"

New research is underway on the use of reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP) to improve sustainability and reduce construction costs in asphalt mixtures. This work will evaluate how RAP fractionation and percentages influence material consistency, durability, and overall pavement performance.

The study will help DOTD identify when higher RAP usage is feasible and inform potential updates to specifications, along with practical guidance on fractionation strategies and cost-effective implementation.

🔗: https://new.express.adobe.com/webpage/6anz1AUNuRK2c