Milano Serravalle Engineering oversaw the static and seismic upgrading and modernization works of the Po River Bridge on the A7 motorway, northbound carriageway, under the responsibility of the Milano Serravalle concessionaire.
The structure, built in the 1960s and approximately 800 meters long, is essential for mobility in the Pavia area and, due to the particular conditions of the site where it was built, requires special attention.
Regarding the static upgrading, the main operations included:
- Removal of the post-tensioning system;
- Reinforcement of the deck slab through the integration of longitudinal and transverse reinforcement;
- Restoration of the Gerber saddles.
As for the seismic upgrading, the following were carried out:
- Upgrading works on the abutments through the construction of a new gravel-retaining wall with T-shaped diaphragms,
- Replacement of the bearing devices and installation of elastomeric isolators at the piers and abutments;
- Adaptation of the restraint scheme of the end beams through the installation of shock transmitters and shear keys.
In addition, interventions were carried out to restore the concrete cover, rebuild the curbs, replace the safety barriers, and renew the waterproofing and paving. The structure was also equipped with modern monitoring sensors, which will continuously provide remote data on the condition of the structure, with a view to optimally planning any future preventive maintenance work.