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Abutments

Paragon is continually looking for ways to build abutments better, faster, and more cost effective.  There are two basic methods for building abutments: 1) Cast in place, and 2) Pre-cast.  We can help you determine which method would work better for your particular application.

Cast in place Abutments
This option typically works best for heavier loads or for most government projects.  The "minimum standard" size abutment we build is a 3' (height) X 3' (length wise to the bridge) X 2' wider than the width of the bridge.  For example, a 55' X 10 1/2' bridge structure would require a 3' X 3' X 12 1/2' abutment.  All of the other critical construction details are confidential.  Typical costs range from $5,000 to $8,000 for an entire bridge project.

Pre-cast Abutments
This is a pretty unique approach to building bridges.  In the pre-cast category, there are two main concepts:

• One big solid abutment:  Usually needs to be bigger than the cast in place abutment.  Good for projects that does not allow a concrete truck to get close enough to bridge site.  Hard to move around but approved to be used by most agencies.  Okay to use for heavy loads.  It is hard to give an estimated cost as handling plays a large role in the costs.

• QuickBlocks (several smaller blocks that stack up to make a larger abutment): Generally used for loads up to 40,000 lbs but we are currently testing them to see if they can support heavier loads.  Each block weighs around 2500 lbs so they are easy to move with either a small backhoe or large skid steer.  They measure 46" (latitudinal to bridge) X 41" (longitudinal to bridge) X 18" tall.  They interlock like Lego's so you can build very wide and very tall abutments.  This is still a fairly new concept so some government agencies have not approved them yet.  We absolutely love them!  We have distributors all over the country so delivery is a very easy.  Go to our QUICKBLOCKS page to learn more...

   We are changing the rules of bridge building!

  Single row

  Single row

  Double row

  Double row

  Retainer blocks

  Retainer blocks

  Custom designs

  Overal measurement of abutment is: 18" X 41" X ~12'

  Another view of a single row abutment.

  The top row is: 18" X 41" X ~12'

  The bottom row is: 18" X 41" X ~16'

  Another view of the double row

  This is just to give you an idea of what other formations of blocks are available.

  Notice the top "retainer blocks" have a lip that holds back soils.

  This was designed in order to raise the pedestrian bridge high enough to allow boats to pass under the bridge.

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  Single row

  Overal measurement of abutment is: 18" X 41" X ~12'

   

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Contact Information

Telephone:  970-737-1174
After Hours Emergencies:  970-371-1043

Actual physical address
(use this address when sending UPS, FedEx, DHL, and general trucking deliveries)
 19240 US Highway 85, Gilcrest, CO 80623
 

Mailing address
(use this address for sending mail via US Postal Service)
  PO Box 753, Evans, CO 80620

General Information: info@prsx.com
Administrative: tami@prsx.com
Sales: sales@prsx.com

Copyright © 2006 Paragon Bridge Works
Last modified: 04/18/07