Ella Street Bridge Replacement

DGL conducted the assessment of the Ella Street Bridge over the Sandusky River for the City of Tiffin. In 2017, DGL assisted the City by performing a Structure Type Study to assess the existing bridge, prepare repair/replacement recommendations, as well as a cost estimate. City officials, along with DGL personnel, prepared and successfully secured Municipal Bridge Funding through ODOT in 2019. The existing bridge was built in 1914 and served for over 100 years as a connector within the city, allowing for travel across the Sandusky River. The replacement included a multi-use path on the bridge based on future master plan strategy purposes. DGL led the design team and completed a survey of the existing site and review of both topographical findings and utilities. Upon completion of survey tasks, DGL’s design team worked to prepare final construction documents in accordance with current design standards. DGL worked with utility companies, local stakeholders, and adjacent property owners throughout the project to maintain open communication. Final plans included roadway approach, pavement, and drainage improvements along with curb, sidewalk, signing, and lighting details. Mindful phasing considerations were planned to accommodate AQUA Ohio’s waterlines, which are carried over the Sandusky River by the bridge. DGL coordinated early and often with all utility owners, especially AQUA in regard to maintaining their existing waterline that needed to be kept in service at all times while the new line was being built/carried on the new bridge. Since construction was completed in 2023, a new waterline has been installed on the new bridge. Deliverables were rendered on schedule and construction was completed in early 2023. The bridge now provides residents and visitors of the City with a safe, reliable passage for both vehicles and pedestrians for years to come.