Sample Bridge Site Investigation Report

Project Title: __________________________

Bridge Site Investigation Report
Date: ________________________________

Table of Contents

1. Executive Summary

2. Introduction

o 2.1 Project Overview

o 2.2 Purpose of the Site Investigation

o 2.3 Scope of Work

3. Site Location and Description

o 3.1 Site Location

o 3.2 Topography and Geographical Context

o 3.3 Accessibility

4. Site Investigation Methodology

o 4.1 Desk Study and Preliminary Investigations

o 4.2 Field Investigations

 4.2.1 Topographic Survey

 4.2.2 Geotechnical Investigation

 4.2.3 Hydrological Study

 4.2.4 Environmental Assessment

 4.2.5 Seismic and Structural Considerations

5. Responsibilities of Technical Team

6. Geotechnical Investigation Findings

o 6.1 Subsurface Conditions

 o 6.2 Soil Classification and Properties

o 6.3 Groundwater Conditions

o 6.4 Foundation Recommendations

7. Hydrological and Hydraulic Analysis

8. Environmental and Social Considerations

9. Seismic Assessment

10. Design Considerations and Recommendations

11. Conclusion and Recommendations

12. Appendices

 12.1 Borehole Log and Soil Testing Data

 12.2 Topographic Map and Cross-Section

 12.3 Hydrological Data and Flood Analysis

 12.4 Environmental Impact Assessment

 12.5 Photos from Site Investigation

1. Executive Summary

This investigation report for the ___________________ Project provides an overview of site
conditions for the proposed bridge across the __________ River. The site investigation supports
the construction of a concrete beam bridge with a shallow foundation depth of 3 meters.
The investigation involved a geotechnical survey, topographical mapping, hydrological
analysis, and an environmental impact assessment. The report outlines the key findings,
responsibilities of the technical crew, and adherence to Ethiopian Road Authority (ERA) and
AASHTO LRFD bridge design guidelines.

2. Introduction

2.1 Project Overview

This project involves the construction of a concrete beam bridge with a foundation depth of
3 meters to span the __________ River, providing crucial connectivity for the ____________ Road in
__________________ Woreda.
2.2 Purpose of the Site Investigation

The purpose of this site investigation is to collect and analyze geotechnical, hydrological,
and environmental data to design the bridge in compliance with safety, durability, and
functionality standards as per AASHTO LRFD and ERA guidelines.

2.3 Scope of Work

This report covers desk studies, field investigations (topographic survey, geotechnical
sampling, hydrological analysis, and environmental assessment), and seismic risk
assessment in accordance with relevant codes and standards.

3. Site Location and Description

3.1 Site Location

The bridge will be constructed over the _________ River in ______________ Woreda, ______________ Zone,
Amhara Region, Ethiopia, located at GPS coordinates (13.42°N, 38.19°E). The site is rural
with minimal built infrastructure, predominantly used for agriculture.

3.2 Topography and Geographical Context

The site has moderate slopes leading down to the riverbank, with the surrounding area used
for terraced farming. The river valley is narrow, requiring careful attention to slope stability
and foundation design.

3.3 Accessibility

Access to the site is available through existing dirt roads, and further improvements may be
required to allow transportation of construction materials and equipment.

4. Site Investigation Methodology

4.1 Desk Study and Preliminary Investigations

Existing geological maps, hydrological data, and aerial imagery were reviewed as part of the
preliminary studies. Google Earth and local resources provided information on topography,
river behaviour, and general site characteristics.

4.2 Field Investigations

The investigation involved multiple field tasks:

4.2.1 Topographic Survey

  Task Lead: Senior Surveyor

 Code Reference: ERA Bridge Design Manual (BDM) Section 2.2

A detailed topographic survey was performed using GPS and Total Station
equipment. Elevations, river cross-sections, and slope profiles were mapped. Cross-
sections were prepared at 20-meter intervals to aid bridge design.

4.2.2 Geotechnical Investigation

 Task Lead: Geotechnical Engineer

 Code Reference: AASHTO LRFD Section 10 (Foundations)

Three boreholes were drilled to a depth of 10 meters each (foundation depth: 3
meters), and soil samples were collected for lab testing. Standard Penetration Tests
(SPTs) and Atterberg limits were determined. Test results revealed medium-dense
sandy clay overlying dense gravel at 4 meters depth. Foundation design will rely on
the upper soil layer but with additional strengthening.

4.2.3 Hydrological Study

 Task Lead: Hydraulic Engineer

 Code Reference: ERA BDM Section 4.3, AASHTO Section 3 (Hydraulics)

The hydraulic analysis examined seasonal flow variations, flood history, and river
morphology. A 100-year flood level was established at 2.2 meters above the mean
water level. The bridge design will accommodate this, with the lowest soffit level at
least 3 meters above the flood level.

4.2.4 Environmental Assessment

 Task Lead: Senior Environmentalist

 Code Reference: Ethiopian Environmental Impact Assessment Guidelines

An environmental impact assessment identified minor impacts related to vegetation
clearing and construction-phase erosion risks. No significant wildlife issues were
noted. Recommendations for environmental protection include sediment barriers
and controlled access to the site to minimize disturbance.

4.2.5 Seismic and Structural Considerations

 Task Lead: Structural Engineer

 Code Reference: ERA BDM Section 5.7, AASHTO LRFD Section 4

The site falls within a low to moderate seismic zone. The bridge design will account
for seismic loading per AASHTO LRFD recommendations, with structural detailing to
withstand peak ground accelerations of 0.1g.
5. Responsibilities of Technical Team

Technical Team Member Responsibilities

Team Leader / Resident Overall supervision and coordination of the site

Engineer investigation.

Highway Engineer Provide input on alignment and geometric design.

Oversee drilling, soil testing, and foundation

Geotechnical Engineer
recommendations.

Conduct hydrological analysis, including flood risk

Hydraulic Engineer
assessment.

Structural Engineer Assess seismic risks and provide structural design guidance.

Assess environmental impacts and recommend mitigation

Environmental Specialist
measures.

Conduct topographic surveys and provide contour maps for

Senior Surveyor
design.

Prepare technical drawings based on survey and design

Draftsman (CAD)
inputs.

6. Geotechnical Investigation Findings

6.1 Subsurface Conditions

Subsurface investigations revealed the following soil layers:

 0-3 meters: Sandy clay with moderate bearing capacity.

 3-10 meters: Dense gravelly soil, ideal for shallow foundations.

6.2 Soil Classification and Properties

 Sandy clay (upper layer): Moderate compressibility, CBR = 12%, suitable for shallow
foundation with improvement.

 Gravelly soil (deeper layer): High bearing capacity, suitable for bridge foundation.
6.3 Groundwater Conditions

Groundwater was found at 5 meters below the surface, not affecting the shallow foundation
depth of 3 meters.

6.4 Foundation Recommendations

Shallow spread footings at 3 meters depth are feasible with additional soil improvement.
The foundation will rest on dense gravel, providing high bearing capacity.

7. Hydrological and Hydraulic Analysis

The river flow fluctuates seasonally, with a 100-year flood level established at 2.2 meters
above normal. The bridge deck clearance will be 3 meters above the flood level to prevent
inundation. Scour protection using riprap and reinforced concrete is recommended.

8. Environmental and Social Considerations

The bridge site will have minimal impact on local ecosystems. Mitigation measures include
controlling sediment runoff and limiting construction in sensitive areas. No significant
displacement of residents is anticipated.

9. Seismic Assessment

Seismic risk is moderate, requiring the bridge to be designed for a seismic load factor based
on a peak ground acceleration of 0.1g. Seismic detailing will comply with AASHTO LRFD
Section 4 and ERA guidelines.

10. Design Considerations and Recommendations

10.1 Foundation Design

Shallow spread footings at 3 meters depth are recommended, with soil improvement to
increase bearing capacity.

10.2 Structural Design

A cast-in-situ concrete beam bridge is recommended for the span, providing durability and
resistance to seismic and environmental conditions.

10.3 Hydrological Design

The bridge will be designed with a deck clearance of 3 meters above the flood level. Scour
protection measures at the piers and abutments will be installed.

10.4 Environmental Mitigation Measures

Mitigation strategies include erosion control measures and minimizing vegetation loss
during construction.

11. Conclusion and Recommendations

The proposed concrete beam bridge over the _______ River is feasible based on the results of
geotechnical, hydrological, and environmental investigations. The recommended design
features and mitigation measures should ensure the long-term safety and sustainability of
the bridge.

12. Appendices

12.1 Borehole Log and Soil Testing Data

Borehole ID Depth (m) SPT (N-value) Soil Type Moisture Content (%) CBR (%)

BH-1 0-3 12 Sandy Clay 18 12

BH-1 3-10 25 Gravelly Sand 8 50

BH-2 0-3 15 Sandy Clay 20 11

BH-2 3-10 28 Gravelly Sand 9 48

12.2 Topographic Map and Cross-Section

A detailed topographic map with contours at 1-meter intervals and cross-sections every 20
meters were prepared to aid the bridge design.

12.3 Hydrological Data and Flood Analysis

 Design Flood Discharge (100-year flood): 500 cubic meters/second

 Flood Level: 2.2 meters above normal river flow.

 Lowest Soffit Level: 3 meters above flood level.

12.4 Environmental Impact Assessment

Minimal environmental impact observed. Recommendations include erosion control
measures, use of sediment traps, and vegetation replanting.

12.5 Photos from Site Investigation

Photographs from the site showing riverbanks, proposed bridge location, and surrounding
landscape are included in the appendix.