Quantifying Time and User Cost Savings for Rapid Bridge Construction Technique

The rapid bridge construction (RBC) technique is the most recent application of precast concrete technology. While time saving is the main advantage of this emerging technology, a major obstacle to adopting RBC is the common perception that it has a high initial cost. This paper presents a methodology for assessing the savings in time and user costs associated with adopting RBC techniques. A case study is also presented to demonstrate how the assessment methodology can be implemented. A comparison study was carried out to assess the performance of RBC through use of an actual bridge construction project. The results of this study indicate that RBC technology may offer a more efficient and economical alternative to the conventional method.