Annual Bridge Preservation Conference Recognizes Engineering Excellence and Builds Next Generation of Leaders
State and private industry transportation professionals gather
PRESTONSBURG, Ky. (Nov. 7, 2024) – The scenic Jenny Wiley State Park in Floyd County served as the backdrop for this year’s Bridge Preservation Conference, where more than 100 bridge engineers, inspectors, and professionals specializing in bridge inspection and maintenance across Kentucky gathered to discuss the future of the state’s bridges. This year, a welcome addition to the conference enabled attendees to donate nearly $2,000 to support a local engineering school in equipping the next generation of transportation leaders.
All 12 Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) Highway Districts, the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), and various consulting firms attended this year’s conference which emphasized a collaborative approach and topic presentations.
“A lot is riding on our roads and bridges and professional peer exchanges help ensure all the key players involved in maintaining and inspecting Kentucky bridges can share ideas and best practices to keep our structures safe for Kentuckians,” said KYTC Secretary Jim Gray.
Among the highlights was a presentation by Chris Allen, District 12 Bridge Engineer and Supervisor, in partnership with Palmer Engineering. They shared insights into the Justell Bridge repair project, a $3 million undertaking that showcases the complexities of bridge rehabilitation. The Justell Bridge project began around Labor Day in 2023 after initial rehab work revealed a critical fracture in the infrastructure, which required KYTC, contractor Bush and Burchett, and Palmer Engineering to revamp the rehab plans. With completion anticipated by November 2024, the Justell Bridge project demonstrates the rigorous planning and execution required to keep Kentucky’s infrastructure safe and functional.
The conference also celebrated outstanding achievements in bridge preservation. Kim Carbaugh of District 4 was honored with “The Terry King Bridge Inspector of the Year” award, recognizing her excellence in bridge inspection. District 8 Somerset received the “District Bridge Office of the Year” award for their outstanding contributions and dedication to Kentucky’s bridge network.
Inspiring Kentucky’s Next Generation Leaders
The Bridge Preservation Conference this year not only showcased the dedication of Kentucky’s bridge maintenance and engineering professionals but also strengthened connections within the community by setting a foundation for the next generation of bridge builders and innovators to pursue the field thanks to attendee donations.
Focused on community involvement and educational outreach, more than $1,800 was raised by attendees to purchase essential supplies and then donate them to the Floyd County School of Innovation – an engineering program.
Led by Erin Van Zee, engineer and KYTC Bridge Program Manager from Central Office, this effort aimed to provide students with hands-on tools for projects ranging from bridge models to tower and home designs, even including equipment for laser printing in manufacturing classes. The initiative is part of a larger effort to spark interest in engineering and offer real-world applications for the students’ studies and builds on the Cabinet’s existing Kentucky Engineering and Exposure Network program.
Following the conference, J.P. Prince and Chris Allen from District 12 delivered the supplies to Cortney Kidd, the engineering pathways teacher at the Floyd County School of Innovation.
“You truly are opening doors for my kids and allowing them to have experiences beyond what I could have hoped for,” stated Mrs. Kidd.
Throughout the year, the engineering professionals plan to work closely with students, providing mentorship and insights into real-world applications of their studies.
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