SSSBA Workshop Brings Steel Bridge Solutions to New Jersey

Image Left to Right – Kevin Traynor (Acrow), Ronnie Medlock (High Steel Structures), Chris Garrell (NSBA), Gary Wisch (DeLongs), Michael Barker (University of Wyoming), Joel Hahm (Contech), Frank Russo (Russo Structural Services), Justin Dahlberg (Iowa State University)

On February 12, 2026, the Short Span Steel Bridge Alliance (SSSBA) teamed with the New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT) and the American Council of Engineering Companies of New Jersey (ACEC-NJ) to host the New Jersey Short Span Steel Bridge Workshop at NJDOT Headquarters in Trenton, NJ. The full-day event brought together bridge owners, designers and industry partners for an exchange of knowledge on cost-effective, durable steel bridge solutions.

The workshop drew a highly engaged audience for a comprehensive agenda focused on practical design, fabrication and construction strategies that help agencies address short span bridge needs efficiently and economically.

Participants earned professional development hours while gaining insights from leading experts in steel bridge engineering and delivery.

Key Topics and Takeaways

Speakers covered a broad range of technical topics aimed at practical application and innovation, including:

• Bridge Economy & Life Cycle Costing — Evaluating initial costs alongside long-term performance and maintenance considerations.

• Design Tools & Resources — Demonstrations of free industry design tools, including eSPAN140, eBEAM140 and Simon, along with updates on standard plans that streamline steel bridge design.

• Modern Design Approaches — Discussion of simple for dead continuous for live (SDLC) design strategies, buried steel solutions and prefabricated / temporary bridge systems that support accelerated delivery.

• Innovative Systems & Funding Opportunities — Exploration of orthotropic deck systems and federal funding programs.

• Resilient Structural Solutions — Emphasis on durability, constructability, and long service life to meet today’s infrastructure demands.

Each session reinforced the practical advantages of steel in delivering efficient, resilient and cost-effective short span bridge solutions—particularly for local agencies working within limited budgets and tight schedules.

Download copies of these topics/presentations

Partnering for Impact

The strong turnout and active participation reflected the shared commitment among state agencies, local counties and industry leaders to advance practical bridge solutions. Attendees left with actionable insights, proven tools and professional connections to support upcoming bridge projects.

Interested in Hosting a Workshop?

SSSBA offers complimentary, customized workshops for state DOTs, county engineers, and consulting firms nationwide. These sessions can be tailored to address specific project needs, funding considerations, and design practices relevant to your region.

Agencies or organizations interested in scheduling a similar workshop are encouraged to contact Dan Snyder, SSSBA director at dsnyder@steel.org to learn more about bringing this program to their state or county.