Short Span Steel Bridges 
Steel Bridge Design Tools Featured at IBC Sessions Support Streamlined Bridge Delivery
The Short Span Steel Bridge Alliance (SSSBA) and partners successfully showcased a suite of practical steel bridge design tools and resources during two educational sessions at the 2026 International Bridge Conference (IBC) at the National Harbor, Maryland.
The sessions drew participation from bridge owners, consultants, engineers, and transportation professionals seeking practical approaches to improve design efficiency, reduce project delivery time and identify cost-effective solutions for local and state bridge programs. Through presentations, demonstrations, and case studies, attendees were introduced to a set of tools supporting steel bridge design from early-stage planning through detailed analysis and standardized solutions.
Suite of Tools for Short Span Steel Bridge Design
A central focus of both sessions was the demonstration of SSSBA’s integrated approach to steel bridge design tools, led by Dr. Michael Barker, SSSBA Director of Education and Professor at the University of Wyoming. He showcased how the tools work together to support a streamlined workflow from preliminary design through detailed analysis.
Dr. Michael Barker, SSSBA Director of Education and Professor at the University of Wyoming, presents SSSBA’s integrated steel bridge design tools.
eSPAN140 – Preliminary Design Tool
- Web-based tool featuring rolled beam, plate girder, press-brake tub girder, and buried steel bridge solutions
- Supports spans up to 140 feet
- Enables rapid evaluation of bridge alternatives and configurations
- Helps engineers identify efficient steel solutions in early project stages
eBEAM140 – Detailed Beam Analysis Tool
- Excel-based design and analysis tool for off-system steel bridges
- Supports multiple vehicle loading scenarios and steel grades
- Allows “what-if” analysis to optimize bridge performance and cost
- Provides detailed beam design capabilities following preliminary selection
Together, eSPAN140 and eBEAM140 demonstrate a coordinated workflow that moves projects from early concept development to detailed structural design in a consistent and efficient manner.
Barker also provided a preview of ePLATE140, an upcoming tool that will further expand SSSBA’s design resources for short span steel bridge applications (due for release in September 2026).
Across both sessions, Barker emphasized SSSBA’s broader objective of providing practical, complimentary resources that help engineers and bridge owners deliver economical, resilient, and constructible steel bridge solutions.
Download Michael Barker’s Presentation Slides
Bridge Design Optimization with LRFD Simon
Brandon Chavel of the National Steel Bridge Alliance presented LRFD Simon, a free line-girder analysis and preliminary design tool based on the AASHTO LRFD Bridge Design Specifications.
Brandon Chavel of the National Steel Bridge Alliance presents LRFD Simon, a free online girder analysis and preliminary design tool based on the AASHTO LRFD Bridge Design Specifications.
Key capabilities highlighted included:
- Rapid girder sizing for preliminary design
- Evaluation of multiple bridge alternatives
- Estimation of material quantities and cost implications
- Optimization of girder depth and configuration for efficiency
The tool enables engineers to make informed decisions early in design by quickly comparing structural and cost performance across alternatives before advancing to detailed design.
Download Brandon Chavel’s Presentation Slides
Standard Plans for Routine Bridge Applications
Frank Russo of Russo Structural Services introduced the AISC/NSBA Standard Plans for Steel Bridges, a set of optimized steel I-girder bridge solutions for common bridge configurations.
Frank Russo of Russo Structural Services presents information on the AISC/NSBA Standard Plans for Steel Bridges, highlighting optimized steel I girder solutions for common bridge configurations.
The standard plans include:
- Single-span bridges from 80 to 300 feet
- Continuous-span configurations up to 300 feet
- Standardized details for cross frames, diaphragms, deck systems, and field splices
- Construction sequencing and constructability-informed design details
Developed through industry collaboration, the plans are intended to reduce design effort, improve consistency, and support efficient delivery of routine bridge projects while incorporating practical fabrication and construction considerations.
Download Frank Russo’s Presentation Slides
Advancing Practical Steel Bridge Design
SSSBA’s participation at IBC 2026 reinforced the value of integrated, practical design resources that support the full lifecycle of short span steel bridge projects—from preliminary planning through detailed design and standardized solutions.
Across both sessions, strong attendance and engagement reflected continued industry interest in tools that:
- Improve design efficiency
- Support faster project delivery
- Help identify cost-effective steel bridge solutions
- Strengthen decision-making in early design stages
Does the SSSBA offer educational opportunities?
Yes! The SSSBA offers educational opportunities to students and professionals:
Professionals: The SSSBA provides complimentary half-day or full-day workshops on short span steel bridge design to states, counties, and design firms. Topics covered include practical and cost-effective steel bridge design and fabrication with eSPAN140, press-brake-formed steel tub girders, steel buried bridge design, galvanized coating solutions, and economical design with case studies, and more. The workshops can take place virtually or in-person, compliments of the steel industry. Learn more.
Students: The University of Wyoming and the Short Span Steel Bridge Alliance created a free 6-part live-lecture educational series to cover the many aspects of designing, fabricating, and constructing steel bridges. All students who successfully complete the education series will receive a Certificate of Completion from the University of Wyoming. Learn more.
Speakers: The SSSBA provides expert speakers to present topics of interest on the cost-effective design and construction of short span steel bridges. If you need a speaker for your next event, contact the SSSBA.
News
USDOT Makes $626M Available for Infrastructure Projects
U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy announced a $626.7 million investment in America’s infrastructure. Eligible projects include repairing highways and bridges to reduce traffic congestion and freight bottlenecks.
News
WV DOT Completes Fast-Track Bridge Project with Steel
WV DOT completed a fast-track bridge project using salvaged steel beams from a nearby overpass to restore a 20-foot bridge in West Virginia.
Events
SSSBA to Sponsor Two Educational Sessions at the 2026 International Bridge Conference (June 15-17)
The SSSBA will participate in two educational sessions at the 2026 International Bridge Conference, taking place at the National Harbor, Maryland. Attendees will learn how tools such as eBEAM140, eSPAN140, LRFD Simon and AISC/NSBA Standard Plans can help streamline steel bridge design, improve decision-making and enhance project efficiency.