Major Topics of Conference

Opening Session and Keynote Presentation

• Welcome and introductory remarks
• Keynote talk on future of steel bridges in the western states
• FHWA perspective on High Performance Steel (HPS) for bridges

Information on High Performance Steel

• What is High Performance Steel?
• AASHTO provisions as related to design of steel bridges using HPS
• Fatigue and fracture aspects of HPS
• Availability of HPS in the market

Case Histories

• Several presentations outlining challenges and solutions related to steel bridges constructed in western states using HPS
• Several presentations outlining major aspects of steel bridges constructed in other parts of the nation using HPS

Fabrication and Construction Issues

• Welding issues related to use of HPS
• Economical fabrication and erection processes
• Maintenance of steel bridges
• Weathering steel and its past performance

Seismic Issues

• Ongoing research on seismic performance of HPS steel bridges, including substructures
• Advantage of steel bridges in seismic regions

Design Issues

• Innovative Steel Bridge Systems suited for United States
• Role and design of cross frames for steel bridges
• Cost-effective steel bridge details
• Overall design approach for steel bridges

Panel Discussion

" Future of Steel Bridges in the Western States, Utilizing emerging Technologies and HPS" Panel members will include the state bridge engineers from the states of Oregon, Alaska, Colorado, California, Washington, Idaho, Nevada, Arizona, Montana, Wyoming, Utah, New Mexico, Illinois and Tennessee, and representatives from industry, academia and federal and local governments.