Resilience of Cambridge’s Victoria Bridge tested
Resilience testing is being carried out on Cambridge’s Victoria Bridge to assess its condition, vulnerabilities and future life expectancy.
The work, which began last week, involves a series of tests on the 115-year-old high level bridge to measure its strength and assess if and when future work is needed.
Tests include ground water level monitoring, geotechnical investigations and drone survey work.
Testing, which is being carried out by Waipā District Council consultants BECA, is expected to take a further three weeks to complete. There will be no disruption to traffic during this time.
Council transportation manager Bryan Hudson said the work would give Council a comprehensive understanding of the state of the bridge.
“The bridge was designed and constructed in 1905 and opened to the public in 1907, so it is a very old bridge that has been used for a long time,” he said.
“It’s important for us to look at its condition and assess its future life expectancy and make sure we are prepared for any future work.
“While we undergo this testing, residents can expect to see a drill rig at each end of the bridge which will be used to investigate the soil below. There will also be contractors abseiling off the sides of the bridge while they conduct visual surveys.”
Hudson said the bridge would also be assessed on its ability to withstand natural disasters such as an earthquake or severe storm.
“This is vital because it will provide an indication of whether work is required on the bridge in the immediate future, especially given that it will be repainted in coming years and scaffolding will be placed on it. Knowing the longer term maintenance need will also help us consider our options.”
The results of the survey will be presented to Council mid-year.