Tag Archive for: hurricane maria

U.S. Bridge Still Standing After Hurricane Fiona

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Just two days before the fifth anniversary of Hurricane Maria, Hurricane Fiona struck Puerto Rico’s southwest coast. Floodwaters rose swiftly, forcing evacuation and rescues across the island. The rushing water swallowed cars, flooded houses, and even immersed an airport runway on the island’s southern region.

The historic levels of rain also washed away a bridge in Utuado, Puerto Rico, after buckling under the pressure of a river flowing through the town. However, this downed bridge was not one provided by U.S. Bridge nor was it part of the recovery effort by U.S. Bridge after Hurricane Maria. 

As the storm approached Puerto Rico, The National Hurricane Center alerted residents of catastrophic flooding and a maximum of 30 inches of rainfall across the island. The slow-moving Category 1 storm sustained winds of 90 mph and left millions without power.

Ready To Help

President Biden declared a state of emergency throughout the territory before Hurricane Fiona made landfall. Seeing the devastation that’s occurring on the island, we’re eager to offer our help to the town of Utuado once again. 

When Hurricane Maria hammered the region in 2017, U.S. Bridge set to work to connect the communities by designing and installing our modular Liberty Bridges in Utuado and in various towns along the island.

Our Liberty Bridge design met the urgent needs of the restoration project, as manufacturing took a mere six weeks to complete. Within six short months, U.S. Bridge reconnected five communities across the territory.

All the bridges in this project included hot-dipped galvanized steel to protect it from the island’s tropical climate and corrosion, providing longevity and maintenance-free protection.

Built to Last

U.S. Bridge uses the best materials and methods to create strong and reliable bridges. We pride ourselves on being industry leaders that can deliver for projects anywhere around the world. 

As an AISC Certified Major Bridge Fabricator along with an ISO9001 company, we guarantee the best quality steel for any job. Please, contact us today for a free quote or start planning a project today with our  Liberty Bridge.

Building Design to Withstand Extreme Weather Conditions

Building Design To Withstand Extreme Weather Conditions

Stocking up on food supplies, buying generators, and keeping boxes full of batteries are all good measurements to prepare for extreme weather. This is especially relevant for the East Coast and the Caribbean, as we still have a few more weeks of the hurricane season. We are not completely out of the woods yet. Extreme weather conditions are a critical factor that construction companies should consider when planning the building design of structures. Why? Because preparation alone does not suffice. Read on to see the importance of having a building design that takes into account the impacts of winter, earthquakes, and other extreme weather conditions.

Keeping Up with Technology

Engineers at Berkeley National Laboratory developed an optical sensor that determines a building’s stability. This system accurately measures the inter-story drift of a building post-earthquake. This advancement could significantly help government buildings, hospitals, and businesses have the information they need to safely remain open in the event of a natural disaster.

The same goes for the East Coast and the Caribbean. With hurricane season, infrastructure suffers the most. So, communities must plan for extreme weather future events. For instance, after Hurricane Maria, Puerto Rico received five Liberty Bridges. Although no one expected the island to suffer such destruction, U.S. Bridge had solutions to quickly respond to the emergency. These bridges provided relief, as they were emergency bridges that are also permanent. As natural disasters continue to occur, construction companies need to be prepared and make improvements in structure design.

Structural Engineering

The stability of a structure is threatened not only from motion generated from the earth, but in its essential design. In other words, this stability depends on sound structural engineering. Also, for structures to maintain stable performance with climate and moisture variables its design and materials are the key factors. There are many communities focusing on new construction that prioritizes durability, sustainability, and mold resistance. This is especially true for places like the East Coast and Caribbean islands, who are under hurricane threats annually.

Extreme Weather Preparedness

It is needless to say that construction must account for extreme weather. However, there is more that goes into this. Communities and construction organizations must have a preparedness guide in place. A lack of preparation can lead to property damage, loss, injury, and even death. Unlike buildings, bridges must continue to serve transportation needs prior to and during extreme weather conditions. Studies show that 40% of bridges in the United States are 50 or more years old. In other words, these bridges were designed and built during a time where weather was not as violent as it is today. Rather than restoring our bridges, construction companies need to enhance their structures. This means improving the way bridges handle wind, precipitation, and heat conditions. Construction companies can start by:

  • Widening drainage areas
  • Adding early warning systems
  • Installing computerized signage
  • Raising bridge profiles to allow water and debris to pass under structures
  • Strengthening bridge foundation elements to withstand water flowing at fast speeds
  • Taking advantage of modern materials designed to withstand extreme conditions

Natural Disaster Relief

Besides taking precautions for sound structural engineering, there are options to support infrastructure. President Donald Trump signed a $19 billion natural disaster relief and recovery bill for infrastructure repair and replacement. $3.3 billion will go to the Army Corps of Engineers to repair damage caused by natural disasters during the last three years, which includes investing in resiliency and flood protection projects. The bill also provides $1.6 billion for post-disaster road and bridge repairs through the Federal Highway Administration’s Emergency Relief Fund. This will help construction companies stay on track after extreme weather property damage.

Weather the Storm with U.S. Bridge

U.S. Bridge focuses on strengthening infrastructure and bridge repair to connect communities. Our bridges are long-lasting and safe, making transportation possible for people everywhere. Our bridge engineers meet the safety needs and design requirements to ensure durable quality prefabricated bridges. Get a quote online or visit our website for more information from our bridge experts.

Liberty Bridge Project in Morovis, Puerto Rico

Liberty Bridge Project Recap In Morovis

It’s been over a year since Puerto Rico survived the biggest hurricane in its history. Since then, the communities affected have adapted to a new life with new bridges. One of these communities is Morovis, which is thriving with a Liberty Bridge from U.S. Bridge. Shortly after the devastation of Hurricane Maria, U.S. Bridge worked tirelessly on the Morovis Liberty Bridge project. This project consisted of building a Liberty Bridge within a six-week period.

Morovis Liberty Bridge

The town of Morovis was not the only one to receive a Liberty Bridge. After Hurricane Maria, U.S. Bridge provided Liberty Bridges in other communities throughout Puerto Rico. In order to provide quick relief, U.S. Bridge manufactured and shipped Liberty Bridges to communities whose bridges were completely destroyed.

Liberty Bridges are unparalleled. It is their quick assembly and adaptability that make them ideal for emergencies. Additionally, these bridges are rigid, a quality that makes them perfect permanent structures. Explore the Liberty Bridge here.

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Life After the Storm in Morovis

U.S. Bridge’s prompt response to this disaster helped residents throughout Puerto Rico find hope. Also, the Liberty Bridge project in Morovis restored the infrastructure of the town. So, to check on the bridge in Morovis, part of the U.S. Bridge team traveled to Puerto Rico in April. Our team was thrilled to see that the bridge is in great shape and that residents, travelers, and commuters are benefitting from it.

U.S. Bridge in Puerto Rico

U.S. Bridge was eager to provide relief to the people of Puerto Rico. The Liberty Bridge design for the bridges constructed in Puerto Rico was the perfect solution to connect these communities promptly. This bridge type is made up of prefabricated modules that are easy to transport and assemble, which helped bring quick relief in this emergency situation. Our work in Puerto Rico continues today and we are proud to be a part of the progress of the island. Contact us today to get your project started.

Rio Abajo Bridge in Utuado, One Year After Hurricane Maria

One Year After Hurricane Maria

On September 20th, 2017, Hurricane Maria made landfall in Puerto Rico destroying everything in its path. The aftermath of this storm left communities disconnected from the rest of the island and with a lack of resources to perform daily activities. One of those communities was Utuado, whose bridge collapsed. U.S. Bridge quickly came to help providing a Liberty Bridge. Today we take a look to appreciate the benefits of the Rio Abajo bridge in Utuado. Also, we look at the progress that this community has made ever since.One Year After Hurricane Maria

Rio Abajo Bridge in Utuado

Hurricane Maria changed the life of Puerto Ricans with the devastation and damage it brought. Therefore, at U.S. Bridge we knew that we needed to do something to provide relief and help our neighbors. The hurricane left Utuado disconnected and isolated for approximately 60 days. So, when we learned that the Rio Abajo bridge had collapsed, there was no hesitation to fly to Puerto Rico and begin work.

With no bridge to allow the survivors to move and seek help, the community devised a zip line to receive goods from the other side of the river. This homemade zip line brought temporary relief to the survivors, as they were able to receive gas, food, medication, and other commodities. However, it was going to take more than just a zip line to bring full relief to Utuado.

Connecting Communities with Liberty Bridges

The construction of the Liberty Bridge helped bring Utuado back to normalcy. And survivors recognize this:

“After a couple of days we received aid from different federal as well as state entities, but what helped us the most was the construction of the metal bridge.”

The Liberty Bridge was the perfect solution for this emergency situation. With its adaptability to different elevations and quick assembly, we were able to provide swift relief to the community. And not only is this bridge fast to construct, it also makes for a great permanent bridge. Today the community of Utuado is back to normal life thanks to the Rio Abajo bridge. Also, Utuado was not the only community that received a Liberty Bridge, there were four other communities like San Lorenzo and Juana Diaz.

The U.S. Bridge Commitment

U.S. Bridge is committed to always build the best steel bridges for communities in the nation and globally. We are also proud of being part of the entities that provided aid to hurricane survivors in Puerto Rico. So, do not hesitate to contact us to begin your project today.

U.S. Liberty Bridges: A Rock Solid Structure

The U.S. Liberty Bridge soars above the competition. With their rigidity and adaptability to various elevations, these bridges are designed to be containerized and quick to construct in the event of an emergency. Also, they are a preferred permanent bridge. After Hurricane Maria’s devastation in Puerto Rico, U.S. Bridge built Liberty Bridges in five communities across the island. U.S. Bridge’s Liberty Series Bridges are the ideal solution to any project.

Bolted Permanent Bridges Surpass Pinned Temporary Bridges

U.S. Liberty Bridges have numerous advantages, but one of the main reasons is their prefabricated panels. Each panel is designed with a bolting system that has an infinite lifespan. In addition, bolting assures resistance to fatigue, weakness, and overloads. This system increases the sustainability of the bridge as a whole and eliminates the need for maintenance. Contrarily, the incorporation of pins into alternative type structures leads to vibration and friction with each load, and over time, more maintenance and monitoring. With its customizable panel sizes, the U.S. Liberty Bridge also spans up to 200 feet. And its larger floor panels give it the ability to support one or multiple lanes of traffic. All these features make the Liberty Bridge the preferred choice for emergency situations.

Begin Your Project With U.S. Bridge

U.S. Bridge has over 80 years of history and experience in the engineering, manufacturing and installation of steel bridges. We help communities create safe and longer-lasting bridges globally. For more information about our bridges and services contact us today.

U.S. Liberty Bridges Infographic

 

U.S. Bridge and Constructora Hartmann Donate to School in Puerto Rico

U.S. Bridge and Constructora Hartmann Donate to School in Puerto Rico

The devastation Hurricane Maria caused in Puerto Rico is the worst the island has seen. Institutions like the Colegio Cristiano Maranatha have made tremendous efforts to go back to normalcy. But it has been a costly process and there is still a lot of work to do. To help alleviate this issue, U.S. Bridge donated $5,000 towards recovery efforts and the rebuild of the school. Likewise, Constructora Hartmann, founded in 1990 and native to Puerto Rico, donated the same amount of money to contribute to the restoration. This joining of forces will greatly help the school in the continuation of the work to repair their facilities.

Helping Our Neighbors

The Colegio Cristiano Maranatha is a nonprofit institution that educates students with special needs from Kindergarten through high school. The damage the hurricane caused was severe, forcing the school to move their students, teachers, and staff to another location in the community. Hurricane Maria’s strong winds, rainwater, and debris damaged a lot of the utilities of the school and part of the infrastructure. So, their main goal is to restore the cafeteria, classrooms, and bathrooms in order to continue the non-profit organization services. Roofing tile replacement,  the purchase of toilets and faucets, the replacement of windows, and electrical panel box units are some of the repairs they need to make. And although they have done extensive work towards the restoration of the school, their budget is limited.

Because of the school’s condition and limitations, Constructora Hartmann and U.S. Bridge donated money to help fund the repairs. This donation took place at the 45th Convención Anual y Expo Construcción in Puerto Rico last month. Thanks to this donation, the Colegio Cristiano Maranatha will now be able to afford the restoration and bring their students and teachers back to school.

Restoring Communities

After Hurricane Maria, U.S. Bridge reconnected communities in Puerto Rico by building five bridges in key affected areas. With more than 80 years of experience, we are dedicated to engineering and building long-lasting steel bridges that benefit communities. To learn more about our bridges and services, contact us today.

 

U.S. Bridge Wins Award ENR Southeast Best Project Award 2018

U.S. Bridge Wins Award of Merit at ENR Southeast Best Project Award 2018

The Engineering News-Record (ENR) provides news on engineering and construction for professionals in the construction industry. Each year they hold a competition that honors the regional best construction projects in the Southeast. This includes Alabama, Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee. With over ten different categories, the competition selects their winners and honorees based on the design and execution of each project. And last year, U.S. Bridge submitted the #WeHeartPR project for the Liberty Bridges provided to communities affected by Hurricane Maria.

ENR Award of Merit: #WeHeartPR

After the devastation caused by Hurricane Maria, U.S. Bridge built 5 Liberty Bridges in affected communities throughout Puerto Rico. U.S. Bridge manufactured and completed installation of the bridges within a six-week period.

The Liberty Bridge was the top choice because its quick assembly makes it ideal for emergencies, and it can be a permanent structure. To build the bridges, more than 850 metric tons of steel were used to create more than 950 ft of bridge. Additionally, the team worked around the clock over the holiday season to accomplish the task. The result was 5 Liberty Bridges in the following areas:

  • Utuado
  • San Lorenzo, Morovis
  • Moca
  • Juana Diaz
  • Coamo

These Liberty Bridges were specifically built to ensure durability and longevity.  

ENR Southeast Best Project Award 2018

U.S. Bridge’s Award of Merit was in the Highway/Bridge category. It is an honor to be selected as a Best Project winner. This project in Puerto Rico was an important one. It not only allowed U.S. Bridge to engineer and manufacture long lasting steel bridges, but also help those communities get back to normal.

The #WeHeartPR project was highlighted in the October 29th Best Projects issue of ENR Southeast. Then, it was celebrated at the Best Projects Awards luncheon November 1st at the Renaissance Orlando at Sea World.

ENR Award

Hurricane Season Precautions

Do you live along the coast? If so, taking hurricane season precautions is essential. In fact, the National Hurricane Center calls individuals to prepare for hurricane risks and act on those preparations if they want to stay safe. As a leader in emergency bridge construction, U.S. Bridge is passionate about helping home and business owners protect both themselves and their property in the event of a severe storm. Here are our tips for staying safe, no matter what Mother Nature has in store.

Stock Up on Supplies

One of the best hurricane season precautions you can take is creating an emergency stockpile of supplies. Along with canned foods and bottled water, it is a good idea to set aside batteries, flashlights, warm clothing, and basic first aid supplies. For best results, keep an emergency stash of any medications your family uses regularly, such as painkillers and insulin.

Prepare Your Property

Whether you live on the coast or just keep a vacation home there, it is important to take steps to protect your property from hurricane damage. Start by securing windows and doors with hurricane shutters; you don’t want broken glass flying into your living room. Additionally, you should have a professional inspect your roof. Check for rust and loose anchoring on a metal roof, and have loose roof shingles or tiles nailed down prior to storm season.

Know How to Evacuate

Most people don’t like the idea of abandoning their homes or businesses during a storm. However, if the local government recommends evacuation, it’s best to follow that advice. For best results, don’t wait until the last minute to leave town. Instead, listen for emergency alerts and make a plan for getting elderly family members, kids, and pets out while it’s safe.

Is Your Town Prepared for an Emergency?

At U.S. Bridge, we understand how devastating flooding can be and how important it is to get help fast during a storm. Our Liberty Bridge is made from prefabricated panels, so it can be assembled quickly and easily in an emergency. Ideal for both permanent and temporary purposes, the Liberty Bridge offers an effective way of getting people, animals, and vehicles to safety.  

Contact U.S. Bridge Today

At U.S. Bridge, every product we manufacture reflects our extraordinary attention to detail and a firm commitment to quality. To learn more about our emergency bridges, or what other hurricane season precautions you can take, call today or contact our team today.

Video of Puerto Rico post Hurricane Maria

Video of Puerto Rico post Hurricane Maria

Watch our summary video from Puerto Rico post Hurricane Maria and the work that was done.

During devastation, we are there to help. Please fill out a free quote for more information on how we can partner with you to help during the most stressful of times.

The following is the transcript from  the video Puerto Rico post Hurricane Maria in both English and Spanish

Puerto Rico post Hurricane Maria: English Translation

In September of 2017, Hurricane Maria brought devastation to the island of Puerto Rico. This level 5 hurricane left the country without power … and over 1100 lives were lost to this catastrophic event.

U.S. Bridge brought relief to 5 communities throughout the island. This was achieved through use of modular designed Liberty bridges. In just six weeks, the bridges were manufactured and installation was completed to reconnect residents across the island. Over 850 metric tons of U.S. steel was used to create more than 950 feet of bridge. The Liberty Bridge design has been rigorously tested to ensure durability, and longevity.

Hope was restored. Life is getting back to normal. U.S. Bridge is committed to strengthening infrastructure by creating and reinforcing bridges that keep goods and services moving efficiently. The company’s primary goal in Puerto Rico is to aid those affected by the hurricane so that life can return to normal as quickly as possible.

U.S. Bridge is an Ohio based company with decades of bridge design, engineering, manufacturing, and construction experience. Inquire more about how the company is changing and strengthening America and the world’s infrastructure, one bridge at a time. Learn more at USBridge.com

Puerto Rico post Hurricane Maria: Spanish Translation

Este video es un resumen del trabajo realizado por U.S. Bridge en Puerto Rico después de que el huracán María dejó el país devastado.

En septiembre del 2017, el huracán María trajo devastación a la isla de Puerto Rico. Este huracán de nivel 5 dejó el país sin energía eléctrica … y más de 1100 vidas fueron perdidas en este evento catastrófico.

U.S. Bridge trajo alivio a 5 comunidades en toda la isla. Esto se logró mediante el uso de puentes Liberty de un diseño moderno de forma modular. En solo seis semanas, se fabricaron los puentes y se completó la instalación para volver a conectar a los residentes de toda la isla. Se usaron más de 850 toneladas métricas de acero de EE. UU. para crear más de 950 pies de puente. El diseño del puente Liberty ha sido rigurosamente probado para garantizar la durabilidad y la longevidad.

La esperanza fue restaurada. La vida está volviendo a la normalidad. U.S. Bridge se compromete a fortalecer la infraestructura mediante la creación y el refuerzo de puentes que mantengan los bienes y servicios en movimiento de manera eficiente. El objetivo principal de la compañía en Puerto Rico es ayudar a las personas afectadas por el huracán para que la vida pueda volver a la normalidad lo más rápido posible.

U.S. Bridge es una compañía con sede en Ohio que cuenta con décadas de experiencia en diseño, ingeniería, fabricación y construcción de puentes. Investigue más acerca de cómo la compañía está cambiando y fortaleciendo los Estados Unidos y la infraestructura mundial, un puente a la vez.

Get a free quote after devastation strikes

We want to reiterate, we are here to help. Please fill out a free quote if you live in an area where devastation has done damage to bridges. We can partner with you to help.

Interview with CEO Dan Rogovin from U.S. Bridge on Puerto Rico Project

Interview with CEO Dan Rogovin from U.S. Bridge on Puerto Rico Project

The following interview was with the CEO of U.S. Bridge, Mr. Dan Rogovin. The questions focus on, not only, the Puerto Rico Project, but also, the U.S. Bridge processes. CEO Dan Rogovin takes us on a journey of how U.S. Bridge became the leader in steel bridge manufacturing.

What is your background and how did you begin your role as CEO of of U.S. Bridge?

As a 3rd generation bridge builder, my career had long been established prior to my entrance into this world. My interest in building, paired with a long legacy of bridge builders in the family, led to my commitment to the bridge business at the age of 16. After a few summers stationed at various construction sites, I transferred over to the manufacturing side of the business. My time was spent gaining an understanding of materials and manufacturing means and methods. Shortly thereafter, in 1999, I joined U.S. Bridge full time and began focusing on growing the company’s footprint throughout the U.S.

What is the biggest determining factor you look at when assessing if you will take on a new project?

It is important to evaluate each opportunity carefully when determining an interest in each project. First, we consider if it fits within our capabilities. If so, then we evaluate the time frame in order to ensure that we meet the customer’s delivery requirements. Lastly, we determine whether this project would provide some meaningful benefit to the Company. If so, then the decision to participate in the project would be made.

How do you see the future of the construction industry domestically and internationally?

The infrastructure in our country is without question aging. Much of it was constructed decades ago and after years of abuse, and / or lack of maintenance, these bridge assets are subjected to the heaviest of loads under the most extreme conditions. Funding must be allocated towards the replacement of these structures. Doing so would ensure the safety of the traveling public while jointly creating thousands of jobs throughout our country.

Is U.S. Bridge positioned for international aid in catastrophes such as Hurricane Maria?

Hurricane Maria was a historic and tragic event. With thousands of lives lost and many still recovering from the massive destruction that the storm brought, it truly was a life changing event for many. U.S. Bridge is uniquely positioned to provide immediate aid and assistance for these types of events. Immediately after a storm of this magnitude, lines of communication must be restored. As such, when bridges are destroyed, it is imperative that they be replaced as quickly as possible so recovery efforts aren’t interrupted. With a complete line of bridges ready to deploy to these locations, U.S. Bridge has developed an emergency response program to help communities in need at a moment’s notice.

How did Puerto Rico find out about you and the work that you provide?

Over the past few decades, U.S. Bridge has worked diligently to establish a name for ourselves. I believe we have successfully developed a reputation for providing a quality product that meets or exceeds industry standards at a fair price, all while striving to exceed customer expectations. Shortly after Hurricane Maria made landfall and the magnitude of destruction was understood, we were contacted by contractors on the island who were in desperate need of assistance. It was clear to them that U.S. Bridge had the experience and expertise along with the passion and unrelenting energy to meet the accelerated demands required for their projects. Working closely with FHWA and FEMA, the U.S. Bridge team worked tirelessly through the December holiday season to enable the residents of Puerto Rico to reconnect and rebuild their lives.

What is a typical bridge build time?

Every bridge project is different. While some are larger than others, from the time U.S. Bridge receives notice to proceed, many bridges can be engineered, manufactured and delivered within 6-10 weeks.

How would countries and foreign governments benefit from being networked with you?

Over the past 80 years, we’ve engineered, manufactured, and constructed thousands of bridges. Based on that, we have obtained and retained an abundance of tribal knowledge that simply can’t be replicated. Each project is different and there is no boilerplate solution. Our adept team, the systems that we have refined, and our almost century of experience, undoubtedly allow us to hold the hand of any owner, and provide them with the individual support and assistance that each requires.

Where do you see U.S. Bridge’s success stemming from?

There is no question about it, our team. U.S. Bridge has a terrific team of intelligent, driven, passionate, and creative professionals that are always striving to reach new heights. Without them, U.S. Bridge wouldn’t be what it is today, an incredibly efficient, proficient and agile company that provides quality products that literally connect millions throughout the world.

What differentiates U.S. Bridge from other bridge companies? Both foreign and domestic?

U.S. Bridge is unique in that we possess the ability to engineer, manufacture and construct bridges. Many bridge fabricators have developed the skills to manufacture while leaving the engineering and construction to others. With the ability to provide turn-key services, the process is far more efficient for our clients.

What is the preferred method for organizations to get in touch with you about their next project?

I always prefer speaking with someone directly over other forms of communication. I find it far more more personable and efficient. That being said, U.S Bridge is available to provide support by dialing 888-852-0094. In the event that a client’s preferred method of communication is electronic, support can be provided by simply emailing info@usbridge.com or by visiting our website, usbridge.com, and beginning a chat session with one of our bridge experts.

Thanks Dan Rogovin for spending sometime with us on what makes U.S. Bridge a fantastic company!

Hurricane Maria Statistics in Puerto Rico

Hurricane Maria Statistics In Puerto Rico

Immediately following the Puerto Rico hurricane, 100 percent of the island was without power. Additionally, parts of the island had become completely isolated due to the loss of bridges and roadways. Many of these structures were either swept away by the storm or deemed unsafe to travel in its aftermath. U.S. Bridge is proud to be part of the rebuilding effort in Puerto Rico. Take a look below to understand the full scope of the damage to Puerto Rico.

 

A Once-In-A-Lifetime Storm

Hurricane Maria devastated Puerto Rico for almost three weeks. The Category 5 hurricane had wind gusts of up to 175 MPH and is responsible for more than 1,000 deaths. With such an intense storm assaulting the island, its infrastructure was ill-prepared to handle the amount of flooding; as a result, downed trees and power lines made many roadways impassable. Plus, the lack of power leftmost Island residents without access to refrigerated food and medicine, and with only limited access to news and information regarding the storm.

Rebuilding Roadways

U.S. Bridge built five Liberty bridges in Puerto Rico. The effort required 800 metric tons of steel, all made in the USA, as well as three contractors. Altogether, these bridges accounted for 950 feet of roadway with a design life of 75 years.

USB PR Stats Update May20 2018

Reconnecting Communities

The five bridges are in areas hardest hit by the Puerto Rico hurricane. These areas are:

Each of these bridges passed rigorous requirements as set forth by FEMA, AASHTO and the Federal Highway Administration (FHA). The work in Puerto Rico required the use of three freight companies, two galvanizing companies, and two ship lines.

USB-PR-stats-communities-update-May20-2018

Delivering Relief

U.S. Bridge estimated that the building of the bridges took six weeks. In under two months, U.S. Bridge provided Puerto Ricans with just some of the relief needed to rebuild their lives.

As a leader in bridge design and manufacturing, U.S. Bridge is proud to serve as part of the rebuilding effort. The Puerto Rico hurricane was an unprecedented weather event, and our team of engineers is eager to bring their knowledge and expertise to the task at hand. For more information about U.S. Bridge, please contact us today. For more details regarding U.S. Bridge’s work in Puerto Rico, please see our infographic below. Also, download the high resolution version for printing here.

USB PR Stats Update May20 2018 01

 

Puerto Rico Hurricane Damage Coverage – U.S. Bridge To Build 4 Bridges

Puerto Rico Hurricane Damage Coverage - U.S. Bridge To Build 4 Bridges

Since Hurricane Maria devastated Puerto Rico, its residents have been waiting for life to return to normal. However, with its infrastructure severely damaged by the storm, a normal way of life is all but impossible. That’s where U.S. Bridge comes in. They are working on the ground to combat Puerto Rico hurricane damage by rebuilding bridges in four affected areas.

Reestablishing Connection

Hurricane Maria caused massive mudslides, trapping some people in their homes for days and weeks following the storm. These mudslides also led to bridges collapsing. This made it impossible for people to access basic necessities like food and water. Roadways that were once traversed daily were now impassable. U.S. Bridge, started at the end of 2017, and is in the process of finishing in March of 2018. Some of the first rebuilding efforts are focused on affected areas like Utuado.

Reconnecting Remote Areas

Puerto Rico hurricane damage greatly impacted remote areas of the island in these regions, such as Juana Diaz, Utuado, Moca, and San Lorenzo, Morovis. In total, more than 100 of the bridges in Puerto Rico were damaged, and 18 have closed. Without these bridges, residents in remote areas are stranded. Residents are only able to get food and water through pure ingenuity. For example, residents in Rio Abajo, who are now completely cut off from supplies, have rigged a pulley system to get supplies across the river. Due to U.S. Bridge’s quick turn around time, they immediately engineered, manufactured and shipped their Liberty Series bridges to these communities. They are being built as this article is being written! Tactically, U.S. Bridge is connecting one part of the island to another.This will bring hope back to  the area and hasten the flow of supplies that residents so desperately need.

Working Together for Everyone

U.S. Bridge is proud to be one of the many companies working diligently to combat Puerto Rico hurricane damage. Crowley is another great company that is helping transport major components of the Liberty Series bridges across the region. Federal organizations like FEMA and FHWA (Federal Highway Administration) have also backed and supported the recovery effort in Puerto Rico. 47 containers are being transported. These containers weigh in at around 800 metric tons of steel. In total, more than 880 feet of bridge will be built. U.S. Bridge is confident that citizens will regain a semblance of normalcy. These four bridges are being constructed in some of the hardest hit areas of this beautiful island. The work in Puerto Rico has just begun. Collaborative efforts like this are a perfect way to push the rebuilding movement forward.

These amazing contractors should be applauded for their work on these projects:

Liberty for Puerto Ricans

Local news in Puerto Rico is starting to see the benefit of what U.S. Bridge and their partners are doing. Below is a story from Wapa.tv on the Utuado bridge and local residents’ reaction.

 

An Engineering Leader Helping Puerto Rico Hurricane Damage

For over 80 years, U.S. Bridge has been a leader in bridge design and manufacturing throughout the world. Our team of engineers works with local and state governments, businesses, and other organizations to reinforce and stabilize bridges across the country. The CEO of U.S. Bridge, Dan Rogovin and COO, Rajat Shah, have been in Puerto Rico, assessing progress and lending their support.

Todd Carpenter, Bridge Superintendent at U.S. Bridge, has been in the country overseeing the work, and said, “the collaborative effort from, the contractors, the U.S. Government, and the people of Puerto Rico, has made this an extremely fulfilling project. Knowing that our bridges are being used for connecting communities that were shattered, is something I’ll never forget. And these communities will use these bridges for generations to come.”

For more details regarding the work U.S. Bridge is doing in Puerto Rico, please click here. Also, make sure to follow U.S. Bridge’s social channels (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Youtube, and Linkedin) for the ongoing work in Puerto Rico. For more information about U.S. Bridge, we encourage you to contact us today.

Hurricane News: Damage Coverage For Puerto Rico

Hurricane News: Damage Coverage For Puerto Rico

Hurricane Maria devastated Puerto Rico in mid-September 2017. The island’s infrastructure relied on bridges, roads and waterways to maintain trade. Unfortunately, most of these bridges and roads have been destroyed and are no longer passable, according to hurricane news reports. These modes of transportation also provided Puerto Ricans with access to food, water, gasoline, and cities. Hence, rebuilding efforts are the key to getting the island back on its feet.

U.S. Bridge has followed the hurricane news very closely and is eager to help the people of Puerto Rico. Lacking resources and any way to transport them to people who need them most, U.S. Bridge is determined to help Puerto Rico by rebuilding bridges to facilitate free movement of food, water, and gasoline. Parts of Puerto Rico won’t have power before late May, 8 months after hurricane Maria. About 95 percent of the island will see energy restoration by the end of March. Things are slowly getting better, however, there is still much to be done.

Unable to Navigate the Mountains

The mountains near San Juan were particularly hit hard. For example, the neighborhood of San Lorenzo has been cut off from the city due to the destruction of a bridge that allowed free passage for its residents. Residents in the area have stressed how important it is for them to be able to move freely between their homes and the city. Elderly people and the sick, for instance, no longer have access to the care they need. The only option is to ford the river in what is often waist-deep, murky water. On the other hand, they may take a path around the mountain that can add three hours to their trip; but with limited access to gasoline, this is not a viable option. Some residents have actually rigged a cable above the water to get supplies across.

Built to Last

U.S. Bridge is eager to provide relief to the people of Puerto Rico. U.S. Bridge will be using the Liberty Bridge design for four bridge projects that are contracted to construct in Puerto Rico. This bridge type is made up of prefabricated modules that are easy to transport and assemble.  Based on the hurricane news, the Liberty Bridge will offer the type of permanent and quick relief that the people of Puerto Rico need.

U.S. Bridge is providing bridge-building expertise to the people of Puerto Rico who are still suffering the effects of Hurricane Maria more than four months after it made landfall. For more information about U.S. Bridge and our team of dedicated engineers, please feel free to contact us for more information.