The $1.47 million Leimert Bridge Seismic Retrofit Project strengthened the historic bridge over Sausal Creek in Oakland’s Dimond Canyon. The reinforced concrete, open-spandrel arch bridge connects Park Boulevard to the Oakmore neighborhood. Improvements began near the bridge deck, which has a narrow 24-foot travel width. Work also extended down the canyon slopes to establish temporary construction access and staging areas.
Because the bridge is a designated Oakland landmark and is eligible for the National Register of Historic Places, preserving its historic character was a key priority. To achieve this, the project team used nonlinear time-history finite element analysis to develop a specialized retrofit strategy. Structural elements were strengthened with Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer (CFRP) wrap. In addition, crews applied an architectural board-formed mortar finish to replicate the bridge’s original 1920s appearance. Other improvements included concrete spall repairs and epoxy crack injections. A polyester concrete deck overlay and expansion joint seals were also installed to help protect the deck’s structural integrity.
BKF provided roadway and traffic engineering, utility coordination, surveying, and right-of-way engineering services. BKF supported the City of Oakland and prime consultant Biggs Cardosa Associates throughout design and construction.
Utility coordination was especially critical to the project. For example, the team coordinated temporary supports for an East Bay Municipal Utility District (EBMUD) 16-inch waterline, allowing it to remain in service during construction. BKF also coordinated the temporary removal and replacement of a Pacific Gas & Electric Company (PG&E) 16-inch gas main.
Additionally, BKF prepared right-of-way mapping and supported the acquisition of temporary construction easements from adjacent properties. These efforts helped facilitate construction while maintaining public access along the Dimond Canyon Trail.
