System and method for bridge pier replacement

An apparatus for replacing a bridge pier which supports a bridge girder, the apparatus comprising:

• at least two replacement columns installed in openings in the earth on opposite sides of the pier transverse to the axis of the bridge girder;
• a temporary support beam partially embedded within each column;
• a temporary transverse girder suspended between and supported by the support beams;
• and
• a temporary support post positioned between the top of the transverse girder and the underside of the bridge girder.

A method for replacing a bridge pier which supports a bridge girder, the method comprising the steps of:

• installing at least two replacement columns in openings in the earth on opposite sides of the pier transverse to the axis of the bridge girder;
• installing at least one temporary support bracket on each column;
• spanning a temporary transverse girder across the support brackets;
• positioning a temporary support post on the top of the transverse girder to support the underside of the bridge girder;
• removing an upper portion of the pier;
• installing a cap spanning the columns beneath the bridge girder;
• and
• transferring the load from the temporary support post and transverse girder to the new concrete cap.

A method for replacing a bridge pier which supports a bridge girder, the method comprising the steps of:

• installing at least two replacement columns in openings in the earth on opposite sides of the pier transverse to the axis of the bridge girder;
• partially embedding within each column at least one temporary support beam;
• spanning a temporary transverse girder across the support beams;
• positioning a temporary support post on the top of the transverse girder to support the underside of the bridge girder,
• removing an upper portion of the pier;
• installing a cap spanning the columns beneath the bridge girder;
• and
• transferring the load from the temporary support post and transverse girder to the new concrete cap.