SSSBA Presents Steel Solutions for Rail Bridges

Image: Dr. Michael Barker, University of Wyoming, and Dan Snyder, American Iron and Steel Institute (AISI), present at the American Railway Engineering and Maintenance-of-Way Association (AREMA) Committee 15 meeting in Lafayette, Indiana.

On May 13, 2025, the Short Span Steel Bridge Alliance (SSSBA) delivered a presentation on steel solutions for short span rail bridges and rail overpasses during the American Railway Engineering and Maintenance-of-Way Association (AREMA) Technical Committee 15 meeting in Lafayette, Indiana. Presented by Dr. Michael Barker of the University of Wyoming and Dan Snyder of the American Iron and Steel Institute (AISI), the session offered cost-effective, modular steel systems that meet the evolving needs of rail infrastructure owners. The following are highlights from the presentation: 

Download a condensed version of the presentation.

Rethinking Cost and Value in Short Span Bridge Design

The presentation challenged outdated assumptions about concrete’s cost advantage, showing that steel bridges often match or outperform concrete in both initial and life cycle costs. Drawing on research and project data from county, state, and national sources, the SSSBA team demonstrated how galvanized and weathering steel bridges offer long-term value with reduced maintenance requirements—critical for rail owners managing aging structures on tight budgets.

Proven Steel Systems for Rail and Overpass Projects

Several steel bridge systems were featured as practical options for rail and rail-over-highway applications:

• Plate Girder Bridges: A standout example included the Assonet River Bridge replacement in Massachusetts, where prefabricated, galvanized plate girders enabled complete bridge installation during a planned 11-day rail shutdown.

• Buried Corrugated Steel Structures: Highlighted for their durability and ease of installation, these systems are commonly used for rural crossings and wildlife underpasses and are adaptable for limited-clearance rail sites.

• Modular Rolled Beam Bridges: Frequently used in emergency response scenarios, these bridges offer a simplified, quickly deployable solution for short spans—especially where time or access is limited.

• Press-Brake-Formed Steel Tub Girders (PBTGs): Originally developed for highway bridges, PBTGs are now being explored for application in rail bridge design. PBTGs feature shallow, trapezoidal cross sections fabricated from cold-formed plate. New designs tailored for E80 loading and deck compatibility are extending their use to rail settings, combining strength with speed and cost efficiency.

Accelerated Bridge Construction Benefits Rail Operations

Steel’s compatibility with accelerated bridge construction (ABC) was a central theme. Prefabricated components allow for rapid on-site assembly, minimizing disruption to rail service. In many cases, bridge superstructures can be installed within a matter of days—or even hours. This speed, combined with low-maintenance material choices, provides an ideal match for railroads seeking to modernize infrastructure without extended closures or detours.

Tools and Support from SSSBA

To help engineers and rail bridge owners take advantage of these solutions, the presentation highlighted several free tools and resources offered by the SSSBA. The eSPAN140 web-based tool enables rapid preliminary design of short span steel vehicular bridges, while a library of case studies, design guides, and educational videos provide practical guidance. Technical support and supplier connections are also available through the alliance.

As railroads nationwide seek resilient, economical solutions for aging infrastructure, short span steel bridges offer a compelling option backed by research, field success and growing design flexibility.

Get Involved

To learn more about this innovation and other advancements in bridge design, consider becoming involved with the SSSBA. As a member, you can engage in collaborative efforts, access the latest research and technical resources and contribute to shaping the future of steel bridge solutions.

Whether you’re interested in networking with industry leaders, participating in specialized committees, or staying updated on emerging trends, joining the SSSBA offers opportunities to enhance your involvement in the bridge construction industry.

Explore membership benefits and get started today.

For more information, contact Dan Snyder (Director of the SSSBA) at dsnyder@steel.org