Applied Economics Office

Engineering Laboratory

Gaithersburg, MD 20899

U. S. Department of Commerce

National Institute of Standards 

and Technology

NIST Special Publication 1122

U.S. Department of Commerce

National Institute of Standards and 

Technology

Proposed UNIFORMAT II Classification of Bridge Elements

Muthiah Kasi and Robert E. Chapman

Sponsored by:

National Institute of Standards and Technology

Engineering Laboratory

May 2011

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE

Gary Locke, Secretary

NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF STANDARDS AND TECHNOLOGY

Patrick D. Gallagher, Director

NIST Special Publication 1122

Applied Economics Office

Engineering Laboratory

Gaithersburg, Maryland 20899-8603

iii

Abstract

This report presents a proposed UNIFORMAT II classification of bridge elements. 

Elemental classifications differ from traditional product-related classifications because 

their core concept is an element that performs a given function, regardless of the design 

specification, construction method, or materials used. The proposed classification 

represents a major revision and restructuring of ASTM Standard Classification E 2103, a 

bridge-related standard classification first issued by ASTM in 2000. The original bridge 

classification, E 2103, differed from the UNIFORMAT II elemental classification 

hierarchy in several ways which limited its applicability. The major revisions to E 2103 

described in this report will promote its relevance, understanding, and acceptance in the 

bridge industry. Once approved and reissued by ASTM, the UNIFORMAT II Standard 

Classification of Bridge Elements, E 2103, will provide the basis for a comprehensive 

data set of bridge-related costs that will enable public and private decision makers to 

choose more cost-effective solutions for the design and construction of new bridges and 

the maintenance and repair of existing bridges across the Nation.

A set of alphanumeric designators for the proposed multi-level bridge classification is 

included. Because many users are interested in constructing databases for use in cost 

analyses associated with project planning, design, construction, maintenance and repair, 

and condition assessment, alphanumeric designators provide the basis for compiling,

organizing, and referencing cost data.

This report also includes a proposed list of sub-elements for bridges. The UNIFORMAT 

II hierarchy consists of three levels: Level 1, Major Group Elements; Level 2, Group 

Elements; and Level 3, Individual Elements. Thus, the core concept of an element 

resides at Level 3. However, because elements are major components of a constructed 

entity, there is often ambiguity of what exactly is included in an Individual Element and 

what should be rightfully excluded from it. Because sub-elements can be tied into a work 

breakdown structure, they significantly enhance the usefulness of an elemental 

classification across all project participants throughout the lifecycle of bridges and other 

constructed entities.

Keywords:

Bridges; construction; cost estimation; economic analysis; functional elements; life-cycle 

cost; risk analysis; standards; UNIFORMAT II; value engineering
iv
v

Preface

This report produces a proposed classification of bridge elements that will provide the 

basis for a standard classification of bridge elements to be issued by ASTM International. 

The material presented in this report will also provide the basis for a comprehensive data 

set of bridge-related costs that will enable public and private decision makers to choose 

more cost-effective solutions for the design and construction of new bridges and the 

maintenance and repair of existing bridges across the Nation. The intended audience is 

the National Institute of Standards and Technology, the bridge industry, standards and 

codes developers, the American Association of State Highway and Transportation 

Officials, the American Society of Civil Engineers, and other construction industry 

stakeholders interested in improving interdisciplinary communications and in reducing 

the costs of designing, constructing, and maintaining the Nation’s physical infrastructure.

Disclaimer

Certain trade names and company products are mentioned in the text in order to 

adequately specify the technical procedures and equipment used. In no case does such 

identification imply recommendation or endorsement by the National Institute of 

Standards and Technology, nor does it imply that the products are necessarily the best 

available for the purpose.

Disclaimer Regarding Non-Metrics Units

The policy of the National Institute of Standards and Technology is to use metric units in 

all of its published materials. Because this report is intended for the U.S. construction 

industry that uses U.S. customary units, it is more practical and less confusing to include

U.S. customary units as well as metric units. Measurement values in this report are 

therefore stated in metric units first, followed by the corresponding values in U.S. 

customary units within parentheses.

Cover Photographs Credits

The cover photographs were provided by Alfred Benesch & Company.

The bridges associated with each cover 

photograph are as follows: (1) Chicago 

Skyway, Chicago, Illinois; (2) Gateway 

Arch Bridge, Taylor, Michigan; (3) Abe 

Lincoln Memorial Bridge, LaSalle County, 

Illinois; (4) I-39 over Kishwaukee River, 

Winnebago County, Illinois;(5) USH 12 

over Coffee Creek, Black River Falls, 

Wisconsin; and (6) ghosting of the 

Gateway Arch Bridge superstructure.

6

1

4 5

2

3
vi

Author Affiliations

Muthiah Kasi, PE SE CVS, serves as Chairman of the Board at Alfred Benesch & 

Company. Mr. Kasi joined Alfred Benesch & Company in 1969. His experience at 

Benesch includes design and management of high rise and low rise buildings, long span 

river bridges and short span bridges, and urban and rural highways. Mr. Kasi is the 

Chairman of the ASTM Subcommittee on Building Economics, where for nearly 20 years 

he has been active in developing standards covering the design, construction, and 

operation of constructed facilities.

Robert E. Chapman, Ph.D., is the Chief of the Applied Economics Office in the 

Engineering Laboratory at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). 

Dr. Chapman joined NIST, formerly the National Bureau of Standards, in 1975. As 

Chief of the Applied Economics Office, he leads a group of economists that evaluate new 

technologies, processes, government programs, legislation, and codes and standards to 

determine efficient alternatives and measure their economic impacts. Since 1998, Dr. 

Chapman has chaired the Task Group on Techniques within the ASTM Subcommittee on 

Building Economics.
vii

Acknowledgements

The authors wish to thank all those who contributed so many excellent ideas and 

suggestions for this report. They include: Dr. S. Shyam Sunder, Director of the 

Engineering Laboratory (EL) at the National Institute of Standards and Technology 

(NIST); Dr. William Grosshandler, EL Deputy Director for Building and Fire Research; 

Mr. Mark E. Palmer, EL’s Automated and Integrated Infrastructure Construction 

Processes Program Manager, for their technical guidance, suggestions, and support. 

Special appreciation is extended to Dr. Ihab Darwish, Dr. Michael N. Goodkind, Mr. 

Andrew Keaschall, Mr. Robert Tipton, and Ms. Jayne Hill of Alfred Benesch & 

Company, for their technical contributions during the drafting and production of this 

manuscript. Special appreciation is extended to Dr. Christopher U. Brown of the EL’s 

Building Environment Division and Dr. David T. Butry and Dr. Harold E. Marshall of the 

EL’s Applied Economics Office for their thorough reviews and many insights. Special 

appreciation is extended to Ms. Jayne Hill of Alfred Benesch & Company for her cover 

design and graphics skills and to Ms. Carmen L. Pardo of the EL’s Applied Economics 

Office for her assistance in preparing the manuscript for review and publication. Special 

appreciation is also extended to Ms. Barbara Balboni, Senior Engineer RS Means; Mr. 

Robert P. Charette, Adjunct Professor Concordia University; Mr. Anthony L. Huxley, 

Construction Consultant; and Mr. Stephen Mawn, Manager Committee E06 on 

Performance of Buildings ASTM International, for their comments on an earlier draft of 

this report. The report has also benefitted from the review and technical comments 

provided by Dr. Nicos S. Martys of the EL’s Materials and Construction Research 

Division. We also acknowledge and express our gratitude to the Illinois Department of 

Transportation (IDOT) for granting permission to reproduce diagrams from the IDOT

Bridge Standards document in Appendix B: An Illustrated Guide to the Proposed 

UNIFORMAT II Classification of Bridge Elements. The diagrams from the IDOT 

Bridge Standards document reproduced in this report were in effect on March 25, 2011.

We also acknowledge and express our gratitude to the Michigan Department of 

Transportation for granting permission to use the Gateway Arch Bridge as a case 

illustration of the proposed UNIFORMAT II classification. The case illustration is 

presented in Appendix C.
viii
ix

Table of Contents

Abstract..............................................................................................................................iii

Preface................................................................................................................................. v

Acknowledgements........................................................................................................... vii

1 Introduction................................................................................................................ 1

1.1 Background......................................................................................................... 1

1.2 Purpose................................................................................................................ 3

1.3 Scope and Approach ........................................................................................... 3

2 Proposed UNIFORMAT II Classification of Bridge Elements ............................. 5

2.1 Rationale for Classification................................................................................. 5

2.2 How the Proposed Classification will be Used................................................... 6

2.3 Basis of Classification......................................................................................... 9

2.4 Description of Proposed UNIFORMAT II Bridge Elements ........................... 12

3 Summary and Recommendations for Further Research..................................... 31

3.1 Summary........................................................................................................... 31

3.2 Recommendations for Further Research........................................................... 31

References........................................................................................................................ 33

Appendix A Suggested Sub-Classifications of Bridge Elements ............................... 37

Appendix B An Illustrated Guide to the Proposed UNIFORMAT II Classification 

of Bridge Elements................................................................................................... 51

Appendix C Application of Proposed UNIFORMAT II Classification and SubClassifications to a Single-Span, Modified Tied-Arch Bridge ............................. 79

C.1 Summary of Key Bridge Characteristics .......................................................... 79

C.2 Cost Accounting Framework ............................................................................ 85

C.3 Cost Analysis of the Gateway Arch Bridge Using the Proposed UNIFORMAT 

II Elemental Classification and Sub-Classifications..................................................... 87

List of Figures

Figure B.1 Major Group Elements: A Substructure, B Superstructure ........................... 51

Figure B.2 Group Elements: A10 Piers ........................................................................... 52

Figure B.3 Group Elements: A10 Piers........................................................................... 52

Figure B.4 Individual Elements: A1010 Foundations (Field Requirements: A101010X1 

(Cofferdam)) ............................................................................................................. 53

Figure B.5 Individual Elements: A1010 Foundations (Sub-Elements: A101010 Spread 

Footings (Excavation)).............................................................................................. 53

Figure B.6 Individual Elements: A1010 Foundations (Sub-Elements: A101020 Piles) . 54

Figure B.7 Individual Elements: A1010 Foundations (Sub-Elements: A101030 Drilled 

Shafts) ....................................................................................................................... 54

Figure B.8 Individual Elements: A1020 Walls, A1030 Columns, A1040 Cap Beams... 55
x

Figure B.9 Individual Elements: A1040 Cap Beams (Sub-Elements: A10401020 

Reinforcement) ......................................................................................................... 55

Figure B.10 Individual Elements: A1040 Cap Beams..................................................... 56

Figure B.11 Group Elements: A20 Towers ..................................................................... 56

Figure B.12 Group Elements: A30 Abutments................................................................ 57

Figure B.13 Individual Elements: A3010 Foundations, A3020 Stems, A3030 Wing Walls

................................................................................................................................... 57

Figure B.14 Individual Elements: A3010 Foundations (Sub-Elements: A301020 Piles, 

A30102030 Pile Cap)................................................................................................ 58

Figure B.15 Individual Elements: A3020 Stems ............................................................. 58

Figure B.16 Individual Elements: A3030 Wing Walls.................................................... 59

Figure B.17 Group Elements: A40 Other Supports (Individual Elements: A4010 Thrust 

Blocks)...................................................................................................................... 59

Figure B.18 Individual Elements: A4010 Thrust Blocks (Sub-Elements: A401020 

Foundations (A40102020 Piles)).............................................................................. 60

Figure B.19 Group Elements: B10 Short Span Assemblies (Individual Elements: B1010 

Flexural Member, B1020 Diaphragms), B30 Deck .................................................. 60

Figure B.20 Individual Elements: B1010 Flexural Members, B1020 Diaphragms......... 61

Figure B.21 Individual Elements: B1020 Diaphragms.................................................... 61

Figure B.22 Individual Elements: B1030 Bracings......................................................... 62

Figure B.23 Individual Elements: B1030 Bracings......................................................... 62

Figure B.24 Individual Elements: B1040 Bearings......................................................... 63

Figure B.25 Individual Elements: B1010 Flexural Members, B1030 Bracings, B1040 

Bearings .................................................................................................................... 63

Figure B.26 Group Elements: B20 Long Span Assemblies (Individual Elements: B2010 

Ribs, B2030 Hangers)............................................................................................... 64

Figure B.27 Individual Elements: B2030 Hangers.......................................................... 64

Figure B.28 Individual Elements: B2010 Ribs, B2050 Ties ........................................... 65

Figure B.29 Individual Elements: B2040 Spandrels........................................................ 65

Figure B.30 Individual Elements: B2060 Truss Members .............................................. 66

Figure B.31 Individual Elements: B2070 Segmental Box Girders.................................. 66

Figure B.32 Group Elements: B30 Deck (Individual Elements: B3010 Structural 

Surface)..................................................................................................................... 67

Figure B.33 Individual Elements: B3020 Wearing Surface ............................................ 67

Figure B.34 Group Elements: C10 Structure Protection (Individual Elements:C1010 

Slope Walls).............................................................................................................. 68

Figure B.35 Individual Elements: C1020 Expansion Joints............................................ 68

Figure B.36 Individual Elements: C1030 Protection Coats............................................. 69

Figure B.37 Individual Elements: C1040 Sacrificial Beams........................................... 69

Figure B.38 Individual Elements: C1050 Drainage Systems .......................................... 70

Figure B.39 Individual Elements: C1050 Drainage Systems (Sub-Elements C105030 

Buried Drains (C10503020 Head Walls, C10503030 End Walls)).......................... 70

Figure B.40 Individual Elements: C1060 Inspection and Maintenance Systems............ 71

Figure B.41 Individual Elements: C2010 Barriers .......................................................... 71

Figure B.42 Group Elements: C30 Other Protection (Individual Elements: C3010 

Lighting) ................................................................................................................... 72
xi

Figure B.43 Individual Elements: C3010 Lighting, C3020 Signage ............................... 72

Figure B.44 Individual Elements: C3020 Signage .......................................................... 73

Figure B.45 Individual Elements: C3030 Sound Barrier Walls ...................................... 73

Figure B.46 Individual Elements: C3050 Enclosure ....................................................... 74

Figure B.47 Major Elements: D Sitework (Group Elements: D10 Site Preparation 

(Individual Elements: D1010 Clearing and Grubbing)) ........................................... 74

Figure B.48 Individual Elements: D1010 Clearing and Grubbing (Sub-Element D101010 

Clearing (Tree Removal))......................................................................................... 75

Figure B.49 Group Elements: D10 Site Preparation (Individual Elements: D1020 

Demolition and Relocation)...................................................................................... 75

Figure B.50 Individual Elements: D1020 Demolition and Relocation............................ 76

Figure B.51 Individual Elements: D1030 Earthwork ...................................................... 76

Figure B.52 Group Elements: D20 Approach Construction (Individual Elements: D2010 

Approach Slabs, D2020 Sleeper Slabs) .................................................................... 77

Figure B.53 Individual Elements: D2030 Earth Retention System ................................. 77

Figure C.154Overhead View of the Gateway Arch Bridge.............................................. 79

Figure C.255Gateway Arch Bridge as Seen from Telegraph Road.................................. 80

Figure C.356Gateway Arch Bridge as Seen from I-94..................................................... 80

Figure C.457Gateway Arch Bridge Foundation System .................................................. 81

Figure C.558Longitudinal View of the Arch Ribs............................................................ 82

Figure C.659Transverse View of the Arch Ribs Illustrates Unequal Lengths ................. 83

Figure C.760Access Opening to the Arch Rib.................................................................. 84

Figure C.861Hanger Assembly and Neoprene Transition Boots...................................... 84

Figure C.962Cost Distribution of Selected Group Elements and Individual Elements for 

the Gateway Arch Bridge.......................................................................................... 89

List of Tables

Table 2.1 List of Constructed Entities Suitable for Inclusion in the Family of 

UNIFORMAT II Elemental Classifications ............................................................. 10

Table 2.2 Proposed UNIFORMAT II Classification of Bridge Elements....................... 11

Table 2.3 Description of Proposed UNIFORMAT II Bridge Elements .......................... 14

Table A.1 Suggested Sub-Classifications of Bridge Elements........................................ 38

Table C.1 Classification Hierarchy for Program Management-Related Costs................ 86

Table C.2 Classification Hierarchy for Risk Management-Related Costs ...................... 86

Table C.3 Cost Analysis of the Gateway Arch Bridge Using the Proposed UNIFORMAT 

II Elemental Classification and Sub-Classifications................................................. 88
xii
1

1 Introduction

1.1 Background

The use of elemental classifications for improved budget planning and cost control for 

building-related projects began shortly after the end of World War II. Elemental 

classifications differ from the traditional “product-related” classifications because their 

core concept is an “element” that performs a given function, regardless of the design 

specification, construction method, or materials used. Thus, elemental classifications 

support a structured approach for developing budget estimates during the planning and

conceptual design stages where quantity takeoffs and other product-related information 

are still under development.

The initial applications of elemental classifications were in the UK, where they were used 

for budgeting funds to repair educational facilities damaged or destroyed during World

War II and to build new facilities to meet increased demands due to population growth. 

The UK successes with budgeting and cost control for educational facilities led to 

applications in other building types within the UK and ultimately in other parts of 

Europe. By the 1960s, the use of elemental classifications for budgeting and estimating 

the costs of the design and construction of commercial and institutional buildings had

spread throughout the British Commonwealth and many other parts of the world.1

The use of elemental classifications for commercial and institutional buildings in the 

USA began in the 1950s. These initial applications were led by the General Services 

Administration (GSA) and the American Institute of Architects (AIA). The interest in 

producing a common framework that could be used by all stakeholders in the design, 

construction, and operation of commercial and institutional buildings led to the creation 

of UNIFORMAT in 1975.2

The initial success of UNIFORMAT stimulated interest in expanding its capabilities to 

other types of constructed entities. In the late 1980s, a broad-based effort under the 

auspices of the Building Economics Subcommittee of ASTM International was launched 

to produce a standard classification of building elements and related sitework.3 The 

resulting standard, E 1557, was first issued by ASTM in 1993. Over the ensuing years, 

E 1557—refered to as UNIFORMAT II to highlight its linkage to the earlier 

UNIFORMAT document—has been revised and expanded to meet new and emerging 

needs.4

 

1 Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors (RICS). 1969. Standard Form of Cost Analysis. London, England: 

The Building Cost Information Service.

2 Hanscomb Associates, Inc. 1975. Automated Cost Control and Estimating System. Washington, DC: 

General Services Administration.

3 Brian Bowen, Robert P. Charette, and Harold E. Marshall. 1992. UNIFORMAT II: A Recommended 

Classification for Building Elements and Related Sitework, NIST Special Publication 841. Gaithersburg, 

MD: National Institute of Standards and Technology.

4 ASTM International. “Classification of Building Elements and Related Sitework—UNIFORMAT II,” 

E 1557, Annual Book of ASTM Standards: 2010, Vol. 4.11. West Conshohocken, PA: ASTM International.
2

The latest version of E 1557 focuses primarily on buildings but has broad applicability to 

other types of constructed entities. Current applications of E 1557 include: planning 

estimates; program estimates; preliminary project descriptions; preliminary construction 

schedules and cash flow projections; design phase estimates; CAD layering and building 

information modeling (BIM); life-cycle cost analysis reporting; checklists for technical 

design reviews; project scheduling; construction progress reporting and interim 

payments; construction claims analysis; building condition assessment; organizing 

design, engineering, and construction cost information for manuals and databases; and 

organizing maintenance and life-cycle cost data.5

The widespread use of E 1557—it is one of the top selling standards from ASTM’s 

inventory of over 12 000 standards—sparked interest in standard classifications for other 

types of constructed entities. Several ASTM standard classifications were subsequently 

developed, most notably a bridge-related classification, E 2103.6 However, standard 

classification E 2103 differed from the underlying “elemental” concept that was at the 

heart of E 1557. To address the need for a more rigorous “family” of classification 

standards based on the UNIFORMAT II elemental concept, the Building Economics 

Subcommittee, ASTM E06.81, formed a task group charged with the development of a 

set of “Guidelines for Developing UNIFORMAT II Standard Classifications.”

7

 The 

UNIFORMAT II Guidelines were first approved by the Building Economics 

Subcommittee in April 2009 and were posted on the ASTM E06.81 web site in May 

2009.8

Because bridges are a critical component of the Nation’s infrastructure and many bridges 

are in need of significant capital outlays over the coming years to both remedy safety 

concerns and build new capacity for multiple modes of transportation,

9

a major revision 

to the existing bridge classification, E 2103, is both timely and appropriate. At the 

October 2009 ASTM E06.81 meeting, a motion was passed to completely revise and 

restructure E 2103 to be fully consistent with the UNIFORMAT II Guidelines document. 

Plans for revising and restructuring E 2103 were presented at the April 2010 and October 

2010 ASTM E06.81 meetings. This report expands on those plans by providing an indepth description of what the restructured version of E 2103 will include to bring it into 

full compliance with the UNIFORMAT II Guidelines document. Two major extensions 

to the proposed UNIFORMAT II classification of bridge elements are also presented. 

Once approved and reissued by ASTM, the UNIFORMAT II Standard Classification of 

Bridge Elements, E 2103, will provide the basis for a comprehensive data set of bridge-

 

5 Robert P. Charette and Harold E. Marshall. 1999. UNIFORMAT II: Elemental Classification for Building 

Specifications, Cost Estimating, and Cost Analysis, NISTIR 6389. Gaithersburg, MD: National Institute of 

Standards and Technology.

6 ASTM International. “Classification of Bridge Elements and Related Approach Work,” E 2103, Annual 

Book of ASTM Standards: 2010, Vol. 4.12. West Conshohocken, PA: ASTM International.

7 ASTM International. “Guidelines for Developing UNIFORMAT II Standard Classifications,” Working 

Paper. West Conshohocken, PA: ASTM International.

8

http://www.astm.org/COMMIT/SUBCOMMIT/E0681.htm (accessed December 2010).

9 ASCE 2009 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure. http://www.infrastructurereportcard.org/ (accessed 

December 2010).
3

related costs that will enable public and private decision makers to choose more costeffective solutions for the design and construction of new bridges and the maintenance 

and repair of existing bridges across the Nation.

1.2 Purpose

The purpose of this report is threefold. First and foremost, it presents a proposed 

UNIFORMAT II classification of bridge elements. The proposed classification 

represents a major revision and restructuring of ASTM Standard Classification E 2103 

first issued in 2000 and reissued in 2006. The original bridge classification, E 2103, 

differed from the UNIFORMAT II elemental classification hierarchy in several ways 

which limited its applicability. The proposed major revision and restructuring presented 

in this report is fully consistent with the UNIFORMAT II Guidelines document 

established by the ASTM E06.81 Subcommittee on Building Economics. These major 

revisions to E 2103 will promote its relevance, understanding, and acceptance in the 

bridge industry.

Second, this report includes a set of alphanumeric designators for the proposed multilevel bridge classification. Because many users are interested in constructing databases 

for use in cost analyses associated with project planning, design, construction, 

maintenance and repair, and condition assessment, alphanumeric designators provide the 

basis for compiling, organizing, and referencing cost data. Having a common set of 

alphanumeric designators promotes consistency in use among the key project participants 

and other stakeholders associated with the design, construction, and use of bridges and 

other constructed entities.

Third, this report includes a proposed list of sub-elements for bridges. As noted earlier, 

the primary focus of the UNIFORMAT II Standard Classification E 1557 and its 

associated family is on the elemental concept. The UNIFORMAT II hierarchy consists 

of three levels: Level 1, Major Group Elements; Level 2, Group Elements; and Level 3, 

Individual Elements. Thus, the core concept of an element resides at Level 3. All three 

levels are treated in detail in the body of this report and are intended to serve as the basis 

for the proposed revisions to E 2103. However, because elements—Level 3 in a 

UNIFORMAT II hierarchy—are major components of a constructed entity (e.g., a 

bridge), there is often ambiguity of what exactly is included in an Individual Element and 

what should be rightfully excluded from it. By providing a proposed set of sub-elements 

as an appendix, this report lays the framework for evaluating the merits of including such 

a list in E 2103 along with the other proposed revisions discussed in the body of the text. 

Because sub-elements can be tied into a work breakdown structure, they significantly 

enhance the usefulness of an elemental classification across all project participants 

throughout the lifecycle of bridges and other constructed entities.

1.3 Scope and Approach

The report consists of two chapters and three appendices in addition to the Introduction. 

Chapter 2 presents the proposed UNIFORMAT II classification of bridge elements. The 
4

chapter first discusses the rationale for undertaking a major revision of the original 

E 2103 bridge classification to make it consistent with the UNIFORMAT II Guidelines 

document established by the ASTM E06.81 Subcommittee on Building Economics. The 

potential uses of the proposed bridge classification are then discussed. The proposed 

bridge classification is then described and summarized as a hierarchy with three levels: 

Level 1, Major Group Elements; Level 2, Group Elements; and Level 3, Individual 

Elements. The chapter concludes with an element-by-element description of the 

proposed bridge classification.

Chapter 3 provides a summary and recommendations for further research. Specifically, 

four additional UNIFORMAT II classifications are proposed for development: (1) 

tunnels; (2) highways; (3) railroads; and (4) water treatment and distribution. Each of 

these classifications corresponds to a critical infrastructure need identified in the 

American Society of Civil Engineers Report Card for America’s Infrastructure.

10

Appendix A presents suggested sub-classifications of bridge elements. The subclassifications expand the Level 3 Individual Elements into their constituent parts. These 

constituent parts include a Level 4 for all Individual Elements and, where necessary, a 

Level 5 (i.e., subdivisions of Level 4).

Appendix B is designed as an illustrated guide to the proposed UNIFORMAT II 

classification of bridge elements. The appendix includes diagrams, engineering 

drawings, and, where appropriate, photographs to identify the appearance of each element 

and how it fits into the overall framework.

Appendix C uses a case study bridge construction project to demonstrate how to use the 

proposed UNIFORMAT II classification and sub-classifications to analyze and manage 

bridge design and construction costs. The bridge is a single-span, modified tied-arch 

carrying Interstate 94 (I-94) over Telegraph Road in Taylor, Michigan. This bridge was 

part of the reconstruction of I-94 for the Super Bowl XL game held in 2006.

 

10 ASCE 2009 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure, op cit.
5

2 Proposed UNIFORMAT II Classification of Bridge Elements

2.1 Rationale for Classification

The Engineering Laboratory at NIST has launched the Automated and Integrated 

Infrastructure Construction Processes Program to investigate the challenges and evolving 

technologies needed to enable the construction industry to develop best practices, 

protocols, and standards to achieve breakthrough improvements in construction 

productivity and the delivery of physical infrastructure. The timely and cost effective 

delivery of physical infrastructure is a critical national need. The ASCE Report Card for 

America’s Infrastructure highlights the need for maintaining a robust infrastructure to 

promote the Nation’s current standard of living and to advance its competitiveness. 

Unfortunately, much of the Nation’s physical infrastructure is nearing the end of its 

service life and needs to be repaired or replaced. ASCE estimates the cost of renewing 

existing, critical infrastructure to be $2.2 trillion.11

Bridges are an important part of the Nation’s physical infrastructure. Although bridges 

are usually built to last 50 years, AASHTO estimates that the average bridge in the USA 

is 43 years old.12 More than 26 %, or one in four, of the Nation’s 609 905 bridges are 

either structurally deficient or functionally obsolete. A $17 billion annual investment is 

needed to substantially improve current bridge conditions. Currently, only $10.5 billion 

is spent annually on the construction and maintenance of bridges.13

In response to this challenge, this report presents a proposed classification of bridge 

elements within the UNIFORMAT II family of elemental classifications that covers most 

highway bridges, railroad bridges, and pedestrian bridges. The proposed classification 

represents a major revision and restructuring of ASTM Standard Classification E 2103,14

a bridge-related standard classification first issued by ASTM in 2000. The original 

bridge classification, E 2103, differed from the UNIFORMAT II elemental classification 

hierarchy15 in several ways which limited its applicability. The major revisions to E 2103

described in this chapter will promote its relevance, understanding, and acceptance in the 

bridge industry. Once approved and reissued by ASTM, the UNIFORMAT II Standard 

Classification of Bridge Elements, E 2103, will provide the basis for a comprehensive 

data set of bridge-related costs that will enable public and private decision makers to 

choose more cost-effective solutions for the design and construction of new bridges and 

the maintenance and repair of existing bridges across the Nation.

 

11 ASCE 2009 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure, op cit.

12 American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO). 2008. Bridging the 

Gap. Washington, DC: AASHTO.

13 American Society of Civil Engineers. 2009. Facts About Bridges.

14 ASTM International. E 2103, “Classification of Bridge Elements and Related Approach Work,” op cit.

15 ASTM International. E 1557, “Classification of Building Elements and Related Sitework—

UNIFORMAT II,” op cit.
6

UNIFORMAT II classifications have an elemental format similar to the original 

UNIFORMAT16 building elemental classification. However, the title UNIFORMAT II 

differs from the original in that it now takes into consideration a wide range of 

constructed entities that collectively form the “Built Environment.” Elements, as defined 

here, are major physical components that are common within constructed entities. 

Elements perform their given function(s), regardless of the design specification, 

construction method, or materials used. This proposed elemental classification serves as 

a consistent reference for analysis, evaluation, and monitoring during the feasibility, 

planning, and design stages when constructing bridges.

Using the UNIFORMAT II Guidelines document17 to develop elemental classifications 

ensures a consistency in the economic evaluation of construction projects over time and 

from project to project. UNIFORMAT II classifications also enhance reporting at all 

stages of a constructed entity’s life cycle—from feasibility and planning through the 

preparation of working documents, construction, maintenance, rehabilitation, and 

disposal.

2.2 How the Proposed Classification will be Used

The proposed UNIFORMAT II classification presented in this report describes bridge 

elements that are major components of most highway, railroad, and pedestrian bridges. 

This section covers both the potential users of the proposed UNIFORMAT II 

classification of bridge elements and the various ways in which the proposed 

classification can be used to promote more cost-effective bridges throughout their 

lifecycle.18 The elemental classification is the common thread linking activities and 

participants in a bridge project from initial planning through operations, maintenance, 

and disposal.

As the proposed UNIFORMAT II classification of bridge elements refers solely to 

permanent, physical parts of any bridge construction, two ASTM Standard 

Classifications, E 208319 and E 2168,20 need to be included when calculating 

construction cost. These standards provide for the inclusion of construction enabling, 

temporary, and risk mitigation cost figures. Procedures for reporting all these figures are 

 

16 The original UNIFORMAT classification was developed jointly by the General Services Administration 

(GSA) and the American Institute of Architects (AIA). 

17 ASTM International. “Guidelines for Developing UNIFORMAT II Standard Classifications,” op cit.

18For additional information on the uses of ASTM Standard Classification E 1557, see Bowen, Charette, 

and Marshall, UNIFORMAT II—A Recommended Classification for Building Elements and Related 

Sitework, NIST Special Publication 841, op cit, and Charette and Marshall, UNIFORMAT II Elemental 

Classification for Building Specifications, Cost Estimating, and Cost Analysis, NISTIR 6389, op cit.

19 ASTM International. “Classification for Building Construction Field Requirements, and Office Overhead 

and Profit,” E 2083, Annual Book of ASTM Standards: 2010, Vol. 4.11. West Conshohocken, PA: ASTM 

International.

20 ASTM International. “Classification for Allowance, Contingency and Reserve Sums in Building 

Construction Estimating,” E 2168, Annual Book of ASTM Standards: 2010, Vol. 4.12. West Conshohocken, 

PA: ASTM International.
7

described in ASTM standards E 1804,21 E 2514,22 and E 2516.23 While these three latter 

standards were primarily written for building construction, they are nonetheless 

appropriate and readily applied to other forms of construction as well.

Users of the Proposed UNIFORMAT II Classification of Bridge Elements

Financial and Investment—Typically owners, developers, bankers, lenders, accountants, 

and financial managers.

Implementation—Primarily project managers; facilities programmers; designers, 

including engineers; and project controls specialists, including cost planners, estimators, 

schedulers, specification writers, and risk analysts.

Facilities Management—Comprising property portfolio managers, operating staff, and 

maintenance staff.

Others—Public officials, manufacturers, educators, students, and other project 

stakeholders.

Applications of the Proposed UNIFORMAT II Classification of Bridge Elements

Financing and Investing—Structuring costs on an elemental basis for economic 

evaluations (ASTM Standard Practices E 917,24 E 964,25 E 1057,26 E 1074,27 E 1121,28

and E 180429) early in the design process helps reduce the cost of early financial analysis 

 

21 ASTM International. “Practice for Performing and Reporting Cost Analysis During the Design Phase of a 

Project,” E 1804, Annual Book of ASTM Standards: 2010, Vol. 4.11. West Conshohocken, PA: ASTM 

International.

22 ASTM International. “Practice for Presentation Format of Elemental Cost Estimates, Summaries, and 

Analyses,” E 2514, Annual Book of ASTM Standards: 2010, Vol. 4.12. West Conshohocken, PA: ASTM 

International.

23 ASTM International. “Classification for Cost Estimate Classification System,” E 2516, Annual Book of 

ASTM Standards: 2010, Vol. 4.12. West Conshohocken, PA: ASTM International.

24 ASTM International. “Practice for Measuring Life-Cycle Costs of Buildings and Building Systems,” 

E 917, Annual Book of ASTM Standards: 2010, Vol. 4.11. West Conshohocken, PA: ASTM International.

25 ASTM International. “Practice for Measuring Benefit-to-Cost and Savings-to-Investment Ratios for 

Buildings and Building Systems,” E 964, Annual Book of ASTM Standards: 2010, Vol. 4.11. West 

Conshohocken, PA: ASTM International.

26 ASTM International. “Practice for Measuring Internal Rate of Return and Adjusted Internal Rate of

Return for Investments in Buildings and Building Systems,” E 1057, Annual Book of ASTM Standards: 

2010, Vol. 4.11. West Conshohocken, PA: ASTM International.

27 ASTM International. “Practice for Measuring Net Benefits and Net Savings for Investments in Buildings 

and Building Systems,” E 1074, Annual Book of ASTM Standards: 2010, Vol. 4.11. West Conshohocken, 

PA: ASTM International.

28 ASTM International. “Practice for Measuring Payback for Investments in Buildings and Building 

Systems,” E 1121, Annual Book of ASTM Standards: 2010, Vol. 4.11. West Conshohocken, PA: ASTM 

International.

29 ASTM International. “Practice for Performing and Reporting Cost Analysis During the Design Phase of a 

Project,” E 1804, op cit.
8

and can contribute to substantial design and operational savings before decisions have 

been made that limit options for potential savings.

Cost Modeling, Cost Planning, Estimating and Controlling Project Time and Cost 

During Planning, Design, and Construction—Use the bridge UNIFORMAT II 

classification to prepare budgets and to establish elemental cost plans before design 

begins. Project managers and project controls specialists use these cost plans against 

which to measure and control project cost, and quality, and to set design-to-cost targets.

Conducting Value Engineering Workshops—Conducting value engineering workshops 

(ASTM Standard Practices E 169930 and E 201331). Use this classification as a checklist 

to ensure that alternatives for all elements of significant cost in the bridge project are 

analyzed in the creativity phase of the job plan. Also, use the elemental cost data to 

expedite the development of cost models for bridge systems.

Developing Initial Project Master Schedules—Since projects are essentially built element 

by element, UNIFORMAT II classifications are an appropriate basis for preparing 

construction schedules at the start of the design process. Project managers and project 

controls specialists use these time plans against which to measure and control project 

time (ASTM Standard Practice E 269132), prepare detailed project schedules, and to set 

milestone target dates.

Performing Risk Analyses—Simulation (ASTM Standard Guides E 136933 and E 250634) 

is one technique for developing probability distributions of bridge costs when evaluating 

the economic risk in undertaking a bridge project. Use individual elements and group 

elements in this classification for developing probability distributions of elemental costs. 

From these distributions, build up probability distributions of total costs to establish 

project contingencies (ASTM Standard Practice E 194635 and ASTM Standard 

Classification E 216836) or to serve as inputs to an economic analysis.

 

30 ASTM International. “Practice for Performing Value Analysis (VA) of Buildings and Building Systems,” 

E 1699, Annual Book of ASTM Standards: 2010, Vol. 4.11. West Conshohocken, PA: ASTM International.

31 ASTM International. “Practice for Constructing FAST Diagrams and Performing Function Analysis 

During Value Analysis Study,” E 2013, Annual Book of ASTM Standards: 2010, Vol. 4.11. West 

Conshohocken, PA: ASTM International.

32 ASTM International. “Practice for Job Productivity Measurement,” E 2691, Annual Book of ASTM 

Standards: 2010, Vol. 4.12. West Conshohocken, PA: ASTM International.

33 ASTM International. “Guide for Selecting Techniques for Treating Uncertainty and Risk in the 

Economic Evaluation of Buildings and Building Systems,” E 1369, Annual Book of ASTM Standards: 

2010, Vol. 4.11. West Conshohocken, PA: ASTM International.

34 ASTM International. “Guide for Developing a Cost-Effective Risk Mitigation Plan for New and Existing 

Constructed Facilities,” E 2506, Annual Book of ASTM Standards: 2010, Vol. 4.12. West Conshohocken, 

PA: ASTM International.

35 ASTM International. “Practice for Measuring Cost Risk of Buildings and Building Systems,” E 1946, 

Annual Book of ASTM Standards: 2010, Vol. 4.11. West Conshohocken, PA: ASTM International.

36 ASTM International. “Classification for Allowance, Contingency and Reserve Sums in Building 

Construction Estimating,” E 2168, op cit.
9

Structuring Preliminary Project Descriptions During the Conceptual Design Phase—

This classification facilitates the description of the scope of the project in a clear, concise, 

and logical sequence for presentation to the client; it provides the basis for the 

preparation of more detailed elemental estimates during the early concept and 

preliminary design phases, and it enhances communication between designers and clients 

by providing a clear statement of the designer’s intent.

Coding and Referencing Standard Details In Computer-Aided Design Systems—This 

classification allows a designer, for example, to reference an assembly according to this 

classification’s element designations and build up a database of standard details. This is 

particularly appropriate to design modeling and building information modeling (BIM) 

applications.

Managing Facilities—Recording and writing property condition assessment reports in a 

structured way, using UNIFORMAT II classifications, provides for a consistent, 

accessible, and searchable database of real property inventory.

Other Activities—Structuring cost manuals and recording construction, operating, and 

maintenance costs in a computer database. Having a cost manual or computer database 

in an elemental format assists the preparation of an economic analysis early in the design 

stage and at a reasonable cost.

2.3 Basis of Classification

The framework in Table 2.1 shows the two branches that serve to define the built 

environment—light construction associated with buildings and heavy construction 

associated with civil structures. Under each branch are listed, the various constructed 

entities that collectively are used to create the built environment. Each entity is treated as 

a module, where a module may result in one or more UNIFORMAT II elemental 

classifications. Appropriate modules, and the standards associated with them, when used 

together will effectively describe any planned or built development. 

The proposed classification covered in this report describes exclusively the elements that 

make up one of those constructed entities, bridge structures, shown as the shaded block 

under the heading of Heavy (Civil) Entities. This bridge classification is applicable to 

most types of highway, railroad, and pedestrian bridges.

The classification includes: slab bridges; beam/girder bridges; truss bridges; true 

and tied-arch bridges; cable-stayed bridges; and suspension bridges.

The classification does not include the following movable bridge types: draw 

bridges; lift bridges; and bascule bridges.
10

Table 2.1 List of Constructed Entities Suitable for Inclusion in the Family of 

UNIFORMAT II Elemental Classifications

The proposed UNIFORMAT II bridge classification is consistent with typical costing 

practices used at the conceptual design phase. Each element has a significant impact on 

the cost, and it usually occurs frequently. Each element performs a specific function. 

Table 2.2 divides the classification of bridge elements into three hierarchical levels: 

Level 1, Major Group Elements; Level 2, Group Elements; and Level 3, Individual 

Elements. The Major Groups are listed in the normal chronological order of 

construction. The proposed UNIFORMAT II bridge classification builds on the concepts 

and organizational framework put forth in the E 1557 standard classification.
11

Table 2.2 Proposed UNIFORMAT II Classification of Bridge Elements

Level 1

Major Group Elements

Level 2

Group Elements

Level 3

Individual Elements

A Substructure A10 Piers A1010 Foundations

A1020 Walls

A1030 Columns

A1040 Cap Beams

A20 Towers A2010 Foundations

A2020 Walls

A2030 Columns

A2040 Cap Beams

A30 Abutments A3010 Foundations

A3020 Stems

A3030 Wing Walls

A40 Other Supports A4010 Thrust Blocks

A4020 Anchorages

B Superstructure B10 Short Span Assemblies B1010 Flexural Members

B1020 Diaphragms

B1030 Bracings

B1040 Bearings

B20 Long Span Assemblies B2010 Ribs

B2020 Cables

B2030 Hangers 

B2040 Spandrels

B2050 Ties

B2060 Truss Members

B2070 Segmental Box Girders

B30 Deck B3010 Structural Surface

B3020 Wearing Surface

C Protection C10 Structure Protection C1010 Slope Walls

C1020 Expansion Joints

C1030 Protective Coats

C1040 Sacrificial Beams

C1050 Drainage Systems

C1060 Inspection and Maintenance Systems

C20 Traffic Protection C2010 Barriers

C2020 Protective Shields

C2030 Traffic Controls

C30 Other Protection C3010 Lighting

C3020 Signage

C3030 Sound Barrier Walls

C3040 Air Pressure Barriers

C3050 Enclosure

D Sitework D10 Site Preparation D1010 Clearing and Grubbing

D1020 Demolition and Relocation

D1030 Earthwork

D1040 Hazardous Material Handling

D1050 Environmental Restoration/Replacement

D20 Approach Construction D2010 Approach Slabs

D2020 Sleeper Slabs

D2030 Earth Retention Systems
12

Sub-Classifications (see Appendix A) are named Sub-Elements and comprise as many 

hierarchical levels (Level 4 and below) as are deemed appropriate to the needs of that 

specific example.

The decision as to where among the classification elements to include specific 

construction items will rely on professional judgment as to where professionals in current 

practice normally look for such items.

Only items that impact the choice and cost of the bridge elements are included. Other 

civil works in the transportation system are not included. Consequently, the proposed

classification does not include utilities—pipelines (water, natural gas, and petroleum) 

and transmission lines (electrical, communication, and video)—sharing the same right 

of way as the transportation system.

Elements, as used and defined in the UNIFORMAT II family of classifications, will 

ideally display the following additional attributes:

Capable of being defined precisely;

Self-explanatory;

Separable at all stages of development;

Quantifiable at all stages of development;

Capable of reconciliation with other elemental classifications;

Allow comparisons, project to project, in a meaningful way;

Is a functional component of the constructed entity.

Sitework elements are provided in the proposed classification for exclusive use in support 

of the construction of bridges, not to classify elements of major civil construction works. 

Sitework elements presented in Table 2.2 are designed to provide sufficient detail to 

planners so they will not need to resort to other elemental classifications when working 

on a bridge project.

2.4 Description of Proposed UNIFORMAT II Bridge Elements

Table 2.3 provides, for each Level 3 Individual Element, the name, functions, description, 

inclusions, exclusions, and unit of measure. The table uses the framework outlined in the 

UNIFORMAT II Guidelines document.37 The goal of that framework is to briefly, yet 

concisely, summarize the important features of each element. As a complement to the 

material presented in this section, this report includes Appendix B and Appendix C to 

facilitate the use of the proposed UNIFORMAT II classification of bridge elements.

 

37 ASTM International. “Guidelines for Developing UNIFORMAT II Standard Classifications,” op cit.
13

Appendix B is designed as an illustrated guide to the proposed UNIFORMAT II 

classification of bridge elements. The appendix includes diagrams, engineering 

drawings, and, where appropriate, photographs to identify the appearance of each element 

and how it fits into the overall framework.

Appendix C uses a case study bridge construction project to demonstrate how to use the 

proposed UNIFORMAT II classification and sub-classifications to analyze and manage 

bridge design and construction costs. The case study bridge is a single-span, modified 

tied-arch carrying Interstate 94 (I-94) over Telegraph Road in Taylor, Michigan. This 

bridge was part of the reconstruction of I-94 for the Super Bowl XL game held in 2006.

The functions are classified as Primary, Secondary, and Tertiary. All three levels of 

functions may be served. However, one or two functions may be the driving force behind 

the existence of the element, and they are classified as Primary functions.

The element descriptions provide an understanding of the purpose and application of the 

element. The narrative is intended to provide a brief synopsis of the key features which 

serve to define the element.

The purpose of the element inclusions is to list features that make up the element.

The purpose of the element exclusions is to list features that are not included in the 

element but which are included elsewhere in the proposed classification. Because this 

classification refers solely to permanent physical parts of bridge constructions, 

references to construction enabling (cranes and formwork), temporary construction 

(cofferdams and traffic detours), and risk mitigation (allowances and contingencies) 

cost figures are omitted from the element exclusions.38

The purpose of the unit of measure is to provide a means for calculating the magnitude, 

or size, of each element in any bridge description; units of measure are important to all 

users of elemental classifications. Units of measure are of prime importance in the 

elemental cost management process. Both SI and Customary units are reported. SI units 

are reported first followed by Customary units within parentheses. Table 2.3 uses the 

following unit of measure abbreviations: linear meters (m) and linear feet (ft); square 

meters (m2) and square feet (ft2); cubic meters (m3) and cubic yards (yd3); and kilograms 

(kg) and pounds (lb).

 

38 Appendix C provides for the inclusion of construction enabling, temporary, and risk mitigation cost 

figures. Two tables are used to introduce costs related to program management (field requirements and 

office overhead and profit) and risk management (allowances, contingencies, and reserve sums). Cost data 

for the Telegraph Road bridge are then tabulated and analyzed using the two tables referenced above and 

the proposed classification presented in this section and the sub-classifications presented in Appendix A.
14

Table 2.3 Description of Proposed UNIFORMAT II Bridge Elements

A SUBSTRUCTURE

A10 Piers

A1010 Foundations

Primary Function Transfer load, Minimize settlement

Secondary Function Minimize maintenance

Tertiary Function Facilitate construction

Description

Foundations are structures that transfer the load of the bridge 

substructures to the ground. They may be spread footings, piles, or 

drilled shafts. The type depends upon the soil conditions.

Includes Excavation and backfilling

Excludes

Unit of Measure m

3

(yd3) or m (ft)

A1020 Walls

Primary Function Distribute load, Protect foundation

Secondary Function Enhance appearance

Tertiary Function Expedite construction

Description

Walls are structures that support and brace the columns; in addition 

to transferring the load from the columns to the foundation, they 

protect the pier against impacts from vehicles, vessels, and debris.

Includes Any struts to brace columns

Excludes

Unit of Measure m

3

(yd3) or kg (lb)

A1030 Columns

Primary Function Distribute load

Secondary Function Enhance appearance

Tertiary Function Expedite construction

Description Columns are structures that support the cap beam and transfer the 

load from the cap beam to the wall below.

Includes

Excludes

Unit of Measure m

3

(yd3) or kg (lb)
15

A1040 Cap Beams

Primary Function Distribute load

Secondary Function Enhance appearance

Tertiary Function Expedite construction

Description Cap beams are structures that receive and transfer beam loads from 

the deck to the bridge columns.

Includes Bridge seat

Excludes Bearings and anchor bolts (see Bearings, Flexural Members)

Unit of Measure m

3

(yd3) or kg (lb)

A SUBSTRUCTURE

A20 Towers

A2010 Foundations

Primary Function Transfer load, Minimize settlement

Secondary Function Minimize maintenance

Tertiary Function Facilitate construction

Description

Foundations are structures that transfer the load of the bridge 

substructures to the ground. They may be spread footings, piles, or 

drilled shafts. The type depends upon the soil conditions.

Includes Excavation and backfilling

Excludes

Unit of Measure m

3

(yd3) or m (ft)

A2020 Walls

Primary Function Distribute load, Protect foundation

Secondary Function Enhance appearance

Tertiary Function Expedite construction

Description

Walls are structures that support and brace the columns; in addition 

to transferring the load from the columns to the foundation, they 

protect the pier against impacts from vehicles, vessels, and debris.

Includes Any struts to brace columns

Excludes

Unit of Measure m

3

(yd3) or kg (lb)
16

A2030 Columns

Primary Function Distribute load

Secondary Function Enhance appearance

Tertiary Function Expedite construction

Description Columns are structures that support the cap beam and transfer the 

load from the cap beam to the wall below.

Includes

Excludes

Unit of Measure m

3

(yd3) or kg (lb)

A2040 Cap Beams

Primary Function Distribute load

Secondary Function Enhance appearance

Tertiary Function Expedite construction

Description Cap beams are structures that receive and transfer beam loads from 

the deck to the bridge columns.

Includes Bridge seat

Excludes Bearings and anchor bolts (see Bearings, Flexural Members)

Unit of Measure m

3

(yd3) or kg (lb)

A SUBSTRUCTURE

A30 Abutments

A3010 Foundations

Primary Function Transfer load, Minimize settlement

Secondary Function Minimize maintenance

Tertiary Function Facilitate construction

Description

Foundations are structures that transfer the load of the bridge 

substructures to the ground. They may be spread footings, piles, or 

drilled shafts. The type depends upon the soil conditions.

Includes Excavation and backfilling

Excludes

Unit of Measure m

3

(yd3) or m (ft)
17

A3020 Stems

Primary Function Distribute load, Retain earth

Secondary Function Minimize erosion

Tertiary Function Minimize settlement

Description

Stems are usually supported on piles; they partially or fully retain 

earth behind, support the ends of the first and last spans of the 

bridge, and support the approach slab.

Includes Bridge seat, reinforcing, concrete, and finishing

Excludes Slope wall, foundation, drainage, and anchor bolts and bearings (see 

Foundations, Drainage Systems, Slope Wall, Bearings)

Unit of Measure m

3

(yd3) or kg (lb)

A3030 Wing Walls

Primary Function Retain earth

Secondary Function Minimize erosion

Tertiary Function Enhance appearance

Description

Wing walls (parallel, perpendicular, or angled) are structures 

connected to the abutment and supported by piles that retain the 

embankment below the approach road.

Includes Reinforcing, concrete, and finishing

Excludes Approach slab and parapet (see Approach Slab, Barriers)

Unit of Measure m

3

(yd3)

A SUBSTRUCTURE

A40 Other Supports

A4010 Thrust Blocks

Primary Function Transfer load, Transfer thrust

Secondary Function Minimizes movement

Tertiary Function

Description Thrust blocks are a special substructure of a true arch bridge that 

receive loads from the ribs and transfer loads to the foundation.

Includes Structure excavation, reinforcing, concrete, and finishing

Excludes Furnishing and installation of anchor bolts, bearing plates, utility 

relocation (see Demolition and Relocation, Flexural Members)

Unit of Measure m

3

(yd3)
18

A4020 Anchorages

Primary Function Secure cable, Transfer load

Secondary Function Maintain even distribution

Tertiary Function

Description

Anchorages are a special substructure to which the weight of the 

deck and supporting superstructure is secured via cables and steel 

eye bars imbedded in solid rock or massive concrete blocks.

Includes Structure excavation, reinforcing, concrete, finishing, and cable 

support (Steel Eye Bar)

Excludes

Unit of Measure m

3

(yd3)

B SUPERSTRUCTURE

B10 Short Span 

Assemblies

B1010 Flexural Members

Primary Function Support Load

Secondary Function Minimize deflection

Tertiary Function Increase redundancy

Description

Flexural members are commonly known as beams and girders that 

support the bridge deck. When the depth of the girder is shallow, it 

is referred to as a beam.

Includes Fabrication and installation of beams, girders, shear connectors, 

splices, connections, and stiffeners

Excludes Diaphragms, bracings, bearings (see Diaphragms, Bracings, 

Bearings)

Unit of Measure kg (lb) or m (ft)

B1020 Diaphragms

Primary Function Stabilize girder, Brace girders

Secondary Function Facilitate deck reconstruction

Tertiary Function

Description Diaphragms are braces for shallow-depth beams.

Includes

Excludes

Unit of Measure kg (lb) or m

3

(yd3)
19

B1030 Bracings

Primary Function Stabilize girders/ribs/truss members

Secondary Function Facilitate deck reconstruction

Tertiary Function

Description Bracings are structural members used to brace deep-depth girders, 

ribs, and truss members.

Includes Fabrication and erection of structural members

Excludes

Unit of Measure kg (lb)

B1040 Bearings

Primary Function Transfer load

Secondary Function Facilitate expansion and contraction

Tertiary Function Minimize maintenance

Description

Bearings are mechanical systems that transfer vertical and 

longitudinal forces; expansion bearings allow rotational and 

longitudinal movement.

Includes Fabrication and erection of bearings and anchor bolts

Excludes Bridge seat (see Cap Beams, Stems)

Unit of Measure EACH

B SUPERSTRUCTURE

B20 Long Span 

Assemblies

B2010 Ribs

Primary Function Transfer load

Secondary Function Facilitate inspection

Tertiary Function Enhance appearance

Description

Ribs are rectangular-, square-, or circular-shaped parts of the 

superstructure for arch bridges; they receive loads from hangers and 

spandrels and transfer them to the foundation.

Includes Splices, stiffeners, and special assemblies

Excludes Bracings, bearings (see Bracings, Bearings)

Unit of Measure kg (lb), or m

3

(yd3), or m (ft)
20

B2020 Cables

Primary Function Transfer load

Secondary Function Enhance appearance

Tertiary Function

Description

Cables, made of steel wires bound together and draped over towers 

to anchors at each cable end, receive through hangers the load from 

the deck.

Includes Fabrication and installation of cables, cable support

Excludes Anchorage (see Anchorage)

Unit of Measure m (ft)

B2030 Hangers

Primary Function Transfer load

Secondary Function Ease replacement

Tertiary Function Enhance appearance

Description

Hangers are rods or strands that connect the deck to the ribs (arch 

bridges) or the main cable (cable-stayed or suspension bridges); 

they receive loads from the deck and transfer loads to the ribs or 

main cable in tension.

Includes Splices (rod), strand assembly, protection

Excludes End connections (see Flexural Members and Ribs)

Unit of Measure m (ft)

B2040 Spandrels

Primary Function Transfer load

Secondary Function Ease replacement

Tertiary Function Enhance appearance

Description

Spandrels are concrete or steel members that connect the deck to 

the ribs (arch bridges); they receive loads from the deck and 

transfer loads to the ribs in compression. They are below the deck 

and above the rib.

Includes Concrete or steel members, protection

Excludes End connections (see Flexural Members and Ribs)

Unit of Measure m (ft)
21

B2050 Ties

Primary Function Eliminate thrust

Secondary Function

Tertiary Function

Description

A tie is a horizontal tension member that connects the two ends of 

the compression ribs of an arch bridge and balances the horizontal 

thrust.

Includes Fabrication and erection of structural steel, stiffeners, splices, and 

other connections

Excludes Hangers, spandrels, bearings (see Bearings, Hangers, and 

Spandrels)

Unit of Measure kg (lb)

B2060 Truss Members

Primary Function Support load, Reduce weight 

Secondary Function Minimize deflection

Tertiary Function

Description Truss members, connected at nodes by plates, are two-dimensional 

structures that support the superstructure.

Includes Splices and other connections

Excludes Bracings, bearings (see Bracings, Bearings)

Unit of Measure kg (lb), or m

3

(yd3), or m (ft)

B2070 Segmental Box Girders

Primary Function Support Load

Secondary Function Minimize deflection

Tertiary Function Facilitate Construction

Description

Segmental box girders are concrete box sections with or without 

overhanging flanges. The segments are precast sections which are 

post tensioned in the field. 

Includes Post tensioning

Excludes Bracings, bearings (see Bracings, Bearings)

Unit of Measure m (ft)
22

B SUPERSTRUCTURE

B30 Deck

B3010 Structural Surface

Primary Function Transfer load

Secondary Function Minimize maintenance

Tertiary Function Facilitate future expansion

Description The structural surface supports the wearing surface and traffic.

Includes Reinforcing, concrete, and finishing

Excludes Expansion joint assembly, parapet, barriers (see Expansion Joints, 

Barriers, Drainage)

Unit of Measure m

3

(yd3) or EACH

B3020 Wearing Surface

Primary Function Protect structure, Guide traffic

Secondary Function Comfort riders

Tertiary Function Reduce maintenance

Description The wearing surface is the part of the road or rail system that comes 

into contact with the vehicle or train car wheels.

Includes Concrete or asphalt overlay or rails, striping, and marking

Excludes

Unit of Measure m

2

(ft2)

C PROTECTION

C10 Structure Protection

C1010 Slope Walls

Primary Function Protect abutment

Secondary Function Prevent erosion

Tertiary Function Enhance appearance

Description Slope walls, made of stone, concrete, gravel, or gravel with asphalt 

mix, support the sloped surface and protect the bridge abutment.

Includes Reinforcing, concrete, and finishing

Excludes Excavation and backfill (see Earthwork)

Unit of Measure m

2

(ft2)
23

C1020 Expansion Joints

Primary Function Facilitate expansion and contraction

Secondary Function Maintain smooth surface

Tertiary Function Facilitate replacement

Description Expansion joints allow expansion and contraction of the slab while 

keeping the substructure stationary.

Includes Furnishing and installation of expansion joint support and 

expansion joint

Excludes

Unit of Measure m (ft)

C1030 Protective Coats

Primary Function Protect structure

Secondary Function Minimize maintenance

Tertiary Function

Description Protective coats are paints, sealants, or preservatives that are 

applied to concrete surfaces of the bridge.

Includes Minor repair work, cleaning surface, and coating

Excludes Major repair work to other bridge elements

Unit of Measure m

2

(ft2)

C1040 Sacrificial Beams

Primary Function Protect girders

Secondary Function Reduce maintenance

Tertiary Function

Description

Sacrificial beams have a lower clearance than the main beams to 

ensure that excessive-height vehicles will hit the sacrificial beam 

before impacting the main beams.

Includes Fabrication and erection of structural steel, stiffeners, splices, and 

other connections

Excludes Bracings, bearings (see Bracings, Bearings)

Unit of Measure kg (lb)
24

C1050 Drainage Systems

Primary Function Minimize erosion

Secondary Function Protect traffic

Tertiary Function Protect structure

Description

Drainage systems are scuppers to drain the bridge deck, downspouts 

to carry off the water from the scuppers, and buried drains behind 

abutments and adjacent to sleeper slabs.

Includes Fabrication and installation of scuppers, drain tiles, drain pipes, and 

related earthwork

Excludes Structural surface (see Structural Surface)

Unit of Measure EACH or m (ft)

C1060 Inspection and Maintenance Systems

Primary Function Facilitate inspection

Secondary Function Facilitate maintenance

Tertiary Function

Description These systems include platforms, railings, stairways, and hoist ways 

to facilitate inspection and maintenance.

Includes Handrails or other type of barriers

Excludes

Unit of Measure m

2

(ft2)

C PROTECTION

C20 Traffic Protection

C2010 Barriers

Primary Function Separate traffic, Protect occupants

Secondary Function Protect structure

Tertiary Function Minimize maintenance

Description

Barriers are structures designed to: withstand forces due to crashes; 

separate the opposing traffic; and protect bridge structures adjacent 

to live traffic.

Includes Noise wall support, light pole support, traffic control support

Excludes

Unit of Measure m

3

(yd3)
25

C2020 Protective Shields

Primary Function Protect traffic (below)

Secondary Function

Tertiary Function

Description Protective shields are barriers below the bridge deck to protect 

traffic below from falling objects.

Includes Membranes and supports designed to catch falling objects

Excludes

Unit of Measure m

2

(ft2)

C2030 Traffic Controls

Primary Function Manage Traffic

Secondary Function

Tertiary Function

Description Traffic controls are an assembly of signals, supports, and conduits

Includes Power source and related items

Excludes Base Support (see Barriers)

Unit of Measure EACH

C PROTECTION

C30 Other Protection

C3010 Lighting

Primary Function Protect traffic

Secondary Function Guide traffic

Tertiary Function Discourage vandalism

Description

Lighting is illumination from fixtures that provide vehicle traffic 

direction, ship navigation direction, task lighting, and vandalism 

discouragement.

Includes Fabrication and installation of mast, lights, base plates, and power

Excludes Base support (see Barriers)

Unit of Measure EACH
26

C3020 Signage

Primary Function Guide traffic

Secondary Function Simplify or consolidate message

Tertiary Function

Description Signage is the provision of information through electronic or 

printed message boards.

Includes Fabrication and installation of sign and support, and power

Excludes

Unit of Measure EACH

C3030 Sound Barrier Walls

Primary Function Abate traffic noise

Secondary Function Create visual barrier

Tertiary Function Enhance appearance

Description A sound barrier wall is a structure to mask traffic noise from the 

surrounding neighborhood.

Includes Wall panel, support, and connection to barrier

Excludes Base (see Barriers)

Unit of Measure m

2

(ft2)

C3040 Air Pressure Barriers

Primary Function Protect people

Secondary Function Protect property

Tertiary Function

Description

Air pressure barriers are structures to mitigate the impact of 

significant air pressure differentials created by the passing of high 

speed transportation vehicles.

Includes Barriers mounted on bridges to mitigate the impact of air pressure 

differentials.

Excludes Base (see Barriers)

Unit of Measure m

2

(ft2)
27

C3050 Enclosure

Primary Function Protect pedestrians and protect traffic

Secondary Function Facilitate maintenance

Tertiary Function Enhance appearance

Description An enclosure is a vertical envelope with roof to protect pedestrians 

and traffic crossing over a bridge.

Includes Structural and architectural members to contain pedestrians and 

traffic.

Excludes

Unit of Measure m

2

(ft2)

D SITEWORK

D10 Site Preparation

D1010 Clearing and Grubbing

Primary Function Eliminate obstacles

Secondary Function Create staging area

Tertiary Function Provide temporary drainage

Description

Clearing is the removal from the construction site of trees and 

abandoned utilities, and the grading and leveling of the site. 

Grubbing is the removal of stumps and tree roots.

Includes Tree removal, abandoned utilities, minor earthwork

Excludes

Major earth work and major utility removal (see Demolition and 

Relocation, Earthwork)

Unit of Measure EACH or Hectare (Acre)

D1020 Demolition and Relocation

Primary Function Eliminate obstacles

Secondary Function Protect structures

Tertiary Function Protect environment

Description

Demolition is the complete or partial (e.g., deck or superstructure) 

removal of an existing bridge, carried out on the whole bridge at 

once or by removing a portion of the deck or superstructure in 

stages to maintain traffic; relocation is the removal and 

reinstallation of utilities.

Includes Removal of bridge elements and disposal, relocation of utilities 

such as storm sewer

Excludes

Unit of Measure EACH
28

D1030 Earthwork

Primary Function Prepare grade

Secondary Function Protect structures

Tertiary Function Protect environment

Description

Earthwork is excavation, placement, and compaction of material to 

raise the bridge profile (material is hauled in and compacted) and to 

lower the bridge profile (material is excavated and hauled away).

Includes Shrinkage factor for embankment, hauling material to or from the 

site

Excludes Removal of hazardous material, structure excavation and back fill 

(see Demolition and Relocation, Foundations)

Unit of Measure m

3

(yd3)

D1040 Hazardous Material Handling

Primary Function Protect environment

Secondary Function Dispose hazardous waste

Tertiary Function Protect workers

Description Hazardous material handling is the discovery, excavation, recovery, 

and disposal of hazardous materials.

Includes Excavation and disposal of material

Excludes General excavation (see Demolition and Relocation, Earthwork)

Unit of Measure m

3

(yd3)

D1050 Environmental Restoration/Replacement

Primary Function Protect environment

Secondary Function

Tertiary Function

Description Environmental restoration/replacement is the activity of restoring or 

replacing elements of the environment disturbed by construction.

Includes Restoration or replacement of wetlands

Excludes

Unit of Measure Hectare (Acre)
29

D SITEWORK

D20 Approach 

Construction

D2010 Approach Slabs

Primary Function Provide transition

Secondary Function Minimize settlement effects

Tertiary Function Facilitate construction

Description

An approach slab, supported by the bridge abutment on one side 

and a sleeper slab or soil on the other, provides a smooth transition 

between the roadway and the bridge, and spans any settlement gap 

between the abutment and the roadway.

Includes Concrete, reinforcing, and finishing

Excludes Barrier and wing wall (see Barriers, Wing Walls)

Unit of Measure m

2

(ft2)

D2020 Sleeper Slabs

Primary Function Protect substructure

Secondary Function Exclude water

Tertiary Function Minimize maintenance

Description Sleeper slabs are rectangular concrete foundations that support 

approach slabs.

Includes Excavation and backfill, concrete, and reinforcing

Excludes Approach slab (see Approach Slabs)

Unit of Measure m

3

(yd3)

D2030 Earth Retention Systems

Primary Function Retain embankment

Secondary Function Enhance appearance

Tertiary Function Facilitate construction

Description Earth retention systems are designed to support embankments when 

the grades are not uniform.

Includes Foundation, wall, and cap

Excludes Excavation and backfill (see Earthwork)

Unit of Measure m

3

(yd3) or m

2

(ft2)
30
31

3 Summary and Recommendations for Further Research

3.1 Summary

This report presents a proposed UNIFORMAT II classification of bridge elements. 

Elemental classifications differ from traditional product-related classifications because 

their core concept is an element that performs a given function, regardless of the design 

specification, construction method, or materials used. The proposed classification 

represents a major revision and restructuring of ASTM Standard Classification E 2103, a 

bridge-related standard classification first issued by ASTM in 2000. The original bridge 

classification, E 2103, differed from the UNIFORMAT II elemental classification 

hierarchy in several ways which limited its applicability. The major revisions to E 2103 

described in this report will promote its relevance, understanding, and acceptance in the 

bridge industry. Once approved and reissued by ASTM, the UNIFORMAT II Standard 

Classification of Bridge Elements, E 2103, will provide the basis for a comprehensive 

data set of bridge-related costs that will enable public and private decision makers to 

choose more cost-effective solutions for the design and construction of new bridges and 

the maintenance and repair of existing bridges across the Nation.

A set of alphanumeric designators for the proposed bridge classification is included. 

Because many users are interested in constructing databases for use in cost analyses 

associated with project planning, design, construction, maintenance and repair, and 

condition assessment, alphanumeric designators provide the basis for compiling and 

organizing cost data.

This report also includes a proposed list of sub-elements for bridges. The UNIFORMAT 

II hierarchy consists of three levels: Level 1, Major Group Elements; Level 2, Group 

Elements; and Level 3, Individual Elements. Thus, the core concept of an element 

resides at Level 3. However, because elements are major components of a constructed 

entity, there is often ambiguity of what exactly is included in an Individual Element and 

what should be rightfully excluded from it. Because sub-elements can be tied into a work 

breakdown structure, they significantly enhance the usefulness of an elemental 

classification across all project participants throughout the lifecycle of bridges and other 

constructed entities.

3.2 Recommendations for Further Research

The background work for this report uncovered several additional areas of research that 

would be of value to government agencies, standards development organizations, 

designers and constructors of physical infrastructure projects, and other stakeholders 

concerned with the costs of designing and constructing new physical infrastructure and of 

maintaining and repairing existing physical infrastructure across the Nation. Specifically, 

four additional UNIFORMAT II classifications are proposed for development: (1) 

tunnels; (2) highways; (3) railroads; and (4) water treatment and distribution. Each of 

these proposed UNIFORMAT II classifications corresponds to a critical infrastructure 
32

need identified in the American Society of Civil Engineers Report Card for America’s 

Infrastructure.

39

 

39 ASCE 2009 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure, op cit.
33

References

American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO). 2008. 

Bridging the Gap. Washington, DC: American Association of State Highway and 

Transportation Officials.

American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE). 2009. ASCE 2009 Report Card for 

America’s Infrastructure. Reston, VA: American Society of Civil Engineers.

American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE). 2009. Facts About Bridges. Reston, VA: 

American Society of Civil Engineers.

ASTM International. “Classification for Allowance, Contingency and Reserve Sums in 

Building Construction Estimating,” E 2168, Annual Book of ASTM Standards: 2010, Vol. 

4.12. West Conshohocken, PA: ASTM International.

ASTM International. “Classification for Bridge Elements and Related Approach Work,” 

E 2103, Annual Book of ASTM Standards: 2010, Vol. 4.12. West Conshohocken, PA: 

ASTM International.

ASTM International. “Classification for Building Construction Field Requirements, and 

Office Overhead and Profit,” E 2083, Annual Book of ASTM Standards: 2010, Vol. 4.11. 

West Conshohocken, PA: ASTM International.

ASTM International. “Classification for Building Elements and Related Sitework—

UNIFORMAT II,” E 1557, Annual Book of ASTM Standards: 2010, Vol. 4.11. West 

Conshohocken, PA: ASTM International.

ASTM International. “Classification for Cost Estimate Classification System,” E 2516, 

Annual Book of ASTM Standards: 2010, Vol. 4.12. West Conshohocken, PA: ASTM 

International.

ASTM International. “Guide for Developing a Cost-Effective Risk Mitigation Plan for 

New and Existing Constructed Facilities,” E 2506, Annual Book of ASTM Standards: 

2010, Vol. 4.12. West Conshohocken, PA: ASTM International.

ASTM International. “Guide for Selecting Techniques for Treating Uncertainty and Risk 

in the Economic Evaluation of Buildings and Building Systems,” E 1369, Annual Book of 

ASTM Standards: 2010, Vol. 4.11. West Conshohocken, PA: ASTM International.

ASTM International. “Guidelines for Developing UNIFORMAT II Standard 

Classifications,” Working Paper. West Conshohocken, PA: ASTM International.

ASTM International. “Practice for Constructing FAST Diagrams and Performing 

Function Analysis During Value Analysis Study,” E 2013, Annual Book of ASTM 

Standards: 2010, Vol. 4.11. West Conshohocken, PA: ASTM International.
34

ASTM International. “Practice for Job Productivity Measurement,” E 2691, Annual Book 

of ASTM Standards: 2010, Vol. 4.12. West Conshohocken, PA: ASTM International.

ASTM International. “Practice for Measuring Benefit-to-Cost and Savings-to-Investment 

Ratios for Buildings and Building Systems,” E 964, Annual Book of ASTM Standards: 

2010, Vol. 4.11. West Conshohocken, PA: ASTM International.

ASTM International. “Practice for Measuring Cost Risk of Buildings and Building 

Systems,” E 1946, Annual Book of ASTM Standards: 2010, Vol. 4.11. West 

Conshohocken, PA: ASTM International.

ASTM International. “Practice for Measuring Internal Rate of Return and Adjusted 

Internal Rate of Return for Investments in Buildings and Building Systems,” E 1057, 

Annual Book of ASTM Standards: 2010, Vol. 4.11. West Conshohocken, PA: ASTM 

International.

ASTM International. “Practice for Measuring Life-Cycle Costs of Buildings and Building 

Systems,” E 917, Annual Book of ASTM Standards: 2010, Vol. 4.11. West 

Conshohocken, PA: ASTM International.

ASTM International. “Practice for Measuring Net Benefits and Net Savings for 

Investments in Buildings and Building Systems,” E 1074, Annual Book of ASTM 

Standards: 2010, Vol. 4.11. West Conshohocken, PA: ASTM International.

ASTM International. “Practice for Measuring Payback for Investments in Buildings and 

Building Systems,” E 1121, Annual Book of ASTM Standards: 2010, Vol. 4.11. West 

Conshohocken, PA: ASTM International.

ASTM International. “Practice for Performing and Reporting Cost Analysis During the 

Design Phase of a Project,” E 1804, Annual Book of ASTM Standards: 2010, Vol. 4.11. 

West Conshohocken, PA: ASTM International.

ASTM International. “Practice for Performing Value Analysis (VA) of Buildings and 

Building Systems,” E 1699, Annual Book of ASTM Standards: 2010, Vol. 4.11. West 

Conshohocken, PA: ASTM International.

ASTM International. “Practice for Presentation Format of Elemental Cost Estimates, 

Summaries, and Analyses,” E 2514, Annual Book of ASTM Standards: 2010, Vol. 4.12. 

West Conshohocken, PA: ASTM International.

Bowen, Brian, Charette, Robert P., and Marshall, Harold E. 1992. UNIFORMAT II: A 

Recommended Classification for Building Elements and Related Sitework, NIST Special 

Publication 841. Gaithersburg, MD: National Institute of Standards and Technology.
35

Charette, Robert P., and Marshall, Harold E. 1999. UNIFORMAT II: Elemental 

Classification for Building Specifications, Cost Estimating, and Cost Analysis, NISTIR 

6389. Gaithersburg, MD: National Institute of Standards and Technology.

Hanscomb Associates, Inc. 1975. Automated Cost Control and Estimating System. 

Washington, DC: General Services Administration.

Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT). 2011. IDOT Bridge Standards.

40

Springfield, IL: Illinois Department of Transportation.

Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors (RICS). 1969. Standard Form of Cost Analysis. 

London, England: The Building Cost Information Service.

 

40 Diagrams from the IDOT Bridge Standards document reproduced in this report were in effect on March 

25, 2011; current IDOT Bridge Standards are available at: http://www.dot.il.gov/bridges/bscadd2.html.
36
37

Appendix A Suggested Sub-Classifications of Bridge Elements

This appendix presents suggested sub-classifications of bridge elements. The subclassifications expand the Level 3 Individual Elements into their constituent parts. These 

constituent parts include a Level 4 for all Individual Elements and, where necessary, a 

Level 5 (i.e., subdivisions of Level 4).

The suggested sub-classifications are presented in Table A.1. Table A.1 is laid out in a 

six column format. The first column lists the Level 1 Major Group Elements. The 

second column lists the Level 2 Group Elements. The third column lists the Level 3 

Individual Elements. The fourth column lists the Level 4 Sub-Elements associated with 

each Level 3 Individual Element. The fifth column lists any Level 5 Sub-Elements 

associated with a Level 4 Sub-Element. Where appropriate, the Level 5 Sub-Elements 

are listed in the normal chronological order of construction. The sixth column lists any 

Level 5 Field Requirements that are both significant in their cost and specific to a Level 4 

Sub-Element (e.g., Formwork associated with Spread Footings).

Alphanumeric designators are included for all Level 4 Sub-Elements, Level 5 SubElements, and Level 5 Field Requirements. It is anticipated that the alphanumeric 

designators will be useful in structuring cost manuals and in recording construction, 

operating, and maintenance costs in computer databases.

The alphanumeric designators use the Level 3 Individual Element character string as their 

reference point. For example, the first Level 4 Sub-Element associated with the A1010 

Foundations Level 3 Individual Element is A101010 Spread Footings. Additional Level 

4 Sub-Elements associated with A1010 Foundations are: A101020 Piles and A101030 

Drilled Shafts. For Level 5 Sub-Elements, the alphanumeric designator uses the Level 4 

Sub-Element as their reference point. For example, the first Level 5 Sub-Element 

associated with the A101010 Spread Footings Level 4 Sub-Element is A10101010 

Excavation. Additional Level 5 Sub-Elements associated with A101010 Spread Footings 

are: A10101020 Reinforcement; A10101030 Placement; and A10101040 Backfilling. 

Spread Footings have a significant field requirement associated with them due to 

Formwork. The alphanumeric designator for Field Requirements includes an X to tie it 

back to Table 1 in E 2083, Standard Classification for Building Construction Field 

Requirements and Office Overhead and Profit. For example, the Level 5 Field 

Requirement associated with the A101010 Spread Footings Level 4 Sub-Element is 

A101010X2 Formwork. If Spread Footings are installed in a waterway, a Cofferdam will 

be required before Excavation can commence. In this case, the Level 5 Field 

Requirement associated with the A101010 Spread Footings Level 4 Sub-Element is 

A101010X1 Cofferdam.
38

Table A.1 Suggested Sub-Classifications of Bridge Elements

Level 1

Major Group 

Elements

Level 2

Group Elements

Level 3

Individual Elements

Level 4

Sub-Elements

Level 5

Sub-Elements

Level 5

Field Requirements

A Substructure A10 Piers A1010 Foundations A101010 Spread Footings A101010X1 Cofferdam

A10101010 Excavation

A101010X2 Formwork

A10101020 Reinforcement

A10101030 Placement

A10101040 Backfilling

A101020 Piles A10102010 Test Piles

A10102020 Piles 

A10102030 Pile Cap

A101030 Drilled Shafts A101030X1 Temporary Casing

A10103010 Permanent 

Casing

A10103020 Rock Socket

A10103030 Bell

A10103040 Reinforcement

A10103050 Placement

A10103060 Cap

A1020 Walls A102010 Cast-in-Place 

Concrete

A102010X1 Formwork

A10201020 Reinforcement

A10201030 Placement

A10201040 Finishing

A10201050 Coating

A102020 Precast Concrete A10202010 Fabrication

A10202020 Erection
39

Level 1

Major Group 

Elements

Level 2

Group Elements

Level 3

Individual Elements

Level 4

Sub-Elements

Level 5

Sub-Elements

Level 5

Field Requirements

A1030 Columns A103010 Cast-in-Place 

Concrete

A103010X1 Formwork

A10301020 Reinforcement

A10301030 Placement

A10301040 Finishing

A103020 Precast Concrete A10302010 Fabrication

A10302020 Erection

A103030 Steel A10303010 Fabrication

A10303020 Erection

A103040 Timber A10304010 Fabrication

A10304020 Erection

A1040 Cap Beams A104010 Cast-in-Place 

Concrete 

A104010X1 Formwork

A10401020 Reinforcement

A10401030 Placement

A10401040 Finishing

A104020 Precast Concrete A10402010 Fabrication

A10402020 Erection

A104030 Steel A10403010 Fabrication

A10403020 Erection

A104040 Timber A10404010 Fabrication

A10404020 Erection

A20 Towers A2010 Foundations A201010 Spread Footings A201010X1 Cofferdam

A20101010 Excavation

A201010X2 Formwork

A20101020 Reinforcement

A20101030 Placement

A20101040 Backfilling
40

Level 1

Major Group 

Elements

Level 2

Group Elements

Level 3

Individual Elements

Level 4

Sub-Elements

Level 5

Sub-Elements

Level 5

Field Requirements

A201020 Pile Foundations A20102010 Test Piles

A20102020 Piles 

A20102030 Pile Cap

A201030 Drilled Shafts A201030X1 Temporary Casing

A20103010 Permanent 

Casing

A20103020 Rock Socket

A20103030 Bell

A20103040 Reinforcement

A20103050 Placement

A20103060 Cap

A2020 Walls A202010 Cast-in-Place 

Concrete

A202010X1 Formwork

A20201010 Reinforcement

A20201020 Placement

A20201030 Finishing

A20201040 Coating

A202020 Precast Concrete A20202010 Fabrication

A20202020 Erection

A2030 Columns A203010 Cast-in-Place 

Concrete

A203010X1 Formwork

A20301010 Reinforcement

A20301020 Placement

A20301030 Finishing

A203020 Precast Concrete A20302010 Fabrication

A20302020 Erection

A203030 Steel A20303010 Fabrication

A20303020 Erection

A203040 Timber A20304010 Fabrication
41

Level 1

Major Group 

Elements

Level 2

Group Elements

Level 3

Individual Elements

Level 4

Sub-Elements

Level 5

Sub-Elements

Level 5

Field Requirements

A20304020 Erection

A2040 Cap Beams A204010 Cast-in-Place 

Concrete 

A204010X1 Formwork

A20401010 Reinforcement

A20401020 Placement

A20401030 Finishing

A204020 Precast Concrete A20402010 Fabrication

A20402020 Erection

A204030 Steel A20403010 Fabrication

A20403020 Erection

A204040 Timber A20404010 Fabrication

A20404020 Erection

A30 Abutments A3010 Foundations A301010 Spread Footings A30101010 Excavation

A301010X1 Formwork

A30101020 Reinforcement

A30101030 Placement

A30101040 Backfilling

A301020 Piles A30102010 Test Piles

A30102020 Piles

A30102030 Pile Cap

A301030 Drilled Shafts A301030X1 Temporary Casing

A30103010 Permanent 

Casing

A30103020 Rock Socket

A30103030 Bell

A30103040 Reinforcement

A30103050 Placement

A30103060 Cap
42

Level 1

Major Group 

Elements

Level 2

Group Elements

Level 3

Individual Elements

Level 4

Sub-Elements

Level 5

Sub-Elements

Level 5

Field Requirements

A3020 Stems A302010 Cast-in-Place 

Concrete

A302010X1 Formwork

A30201010 Reinforcement

A30201020 Placement

A30201030 Finishing

A302020 Precast Concrete A30202010 Fabrication

A30202020 Erection

A3030 Wing Walls A303010 Cast-in-Place 

Concrete

A303010X1 Formwork

A30301010 Reinforcement

A30301020 Placement

A30301030 Finishing

A303020 Precast Concrete A30302010 Fabrication

A30302020 Erection

A40 Other 

Supports

A4010 Thrust Blocks A401010 Cap A401010X1 Formwork

A40101010 Reinforcement

A40101020 Placement

A40101030 Finishing

A401020 Foundations A40102010 Spread Footings

A40102020 Piles

A40102030 Drilled Shafts

A4020 Anchorage A402010 Prestressed A40201010 Spray Saddle

A40201020 Anchor

A402020 Cast-in-Place 

Concrete

A402020X1 Formwork

A40202010 Reinforcement

A40202020 Placement

A402030 Foundations A40203010 Spread Footings

A40203020 Piles
43

Level 1

Major Group 

Elements

Level 2

Group Elements

Level 3

Individual Elements

Level 4

Sub-Elements

Level 5

Sub-Elements

Level 5

Field Requirements

A40203030 Drilled Shafts

B Superstructure B10 Short Span 

Assemblies

B1010 Flexural 

Members

B101010 Cast-in-Place 

Concrete

B101010X1 Formwork

B10101010 Reinforcement

B10101020 Placement

B10101030 Finishing

B101020 Precast Concrete B10102010 Fabrication

B10102020 Erection

B101030 Steel B10103010 Fabrication

B10103020 Erection

B101040 Timber B10104010 Fabrication

B10104020 Erection

B1020 Diaphragms B102010 Cast-In-Place 

Concrete

B102010X1 Formwork

B10201010 Reinforcement

B10201020 Placement

B102020 Precast Concrete B10202010 Fabrication

B10202020 Erection

B102030 Steel B10203010 Fabrication

B10203020 Erection

B102040 Timber

B1030 Bracings B103010 Steel B10301010 Fabrication

B10301020 Erection

B103020 Timber

B1040 Bearings B104010 Elastomeric

B104020 Sliding

B104030 Roller 
44

Level 1

Major Group 

Elements

Level 2

Group Elements

Level 3

Individual Elements

Level 4

Sub-Elements

Level 5

Sub-Elements

Level 5

Field Requirements

B20 Long Span 

Assemblies

B2010 Ribs B201010 Cast-in-Place 

Concrete

B201010X1 Formwork

B20101010 Reinforcement

B20101020 Placement

B201020 Precast Concrete B20102010 Fabrication

B20102020 Erection

B201030 Steel B20103010 Fabrication

B20103020 Erection

B2020 Cables B202010 Wires

B202020 Sockets

B202030 Saddles

B202040 Housings

B202050 Strands

B202060 Anchor Sockets

B2030 Hangers B203010 Top Anchor 

Socket

B203020 Strand

B203030 Boot

B203040 Spacer

B203050 Bottom Anchor 

Socket

B2040 Spandrels B204010 Cast-in-Place 

Concrete

B204010X1 Formwork

B20401010 Reinforcement

B20401020 Placement

B20401030 Finishing

B204020 Precast Concrete B20402010 Fabrication

B20402020 Erection
45

Level 1

Major Group 

Elements

Level 2

Group Elements

Level 3

Individual Elements

Level 4

Sub-Elements

Level 5

Sub-Elements

Level 5

Field Requirements

B204030 Steel B20403010 Fabrication

B20403020 Erection

B2050 Ties B205010 Cast-in-Place 

Concrete

B205010X1 Formwork

B20501010 Reinforcement

B20501020 Placement

B205020 Precast Concrete B20502010 Fabrication

B20502020 Erection

B205030 Steel B20503010 Fabrication

B20503020 Erection

B205040 Splices

B205050 Connections

B2060 Truss members B206010 Members

B206020 Splices

B206030 Connections

B2070 Segmental Box 

Girders

B207010 Main Members

B207020 Placement B20702010 Erection

B207010X1 Temporary Support

B207010X2 Temporary Post 

Tensioning

B20702020 Permanent Post 

Tensioning

B20702030 Closure Piece 

Placement
46

Level 1

Major Group 

Elements

Level 2

Group Elements

Level 3

Individual Elements

Level 4

Sub-Elements

Level 5

Sub-Elements

Level 5

Field Requirements

B30 Deck B3010 Structural 

Surface

B301010 Cast-in-Place 

Concrete

B301010X1 Formwork

B30101010 Reinforcement

B30101020 Placement

B30101030 Finishing

B301020 Precast Concrete B30102010 Fabrication

B30102020 Erection

B301030 Steel B30103010 Metal Deck

B30103020 Connections

B301040 Timber B30104010 Plank

B30104020 Connections

B3020 Wearing 

Surface 

B302010 Cast-in-Place 

Concrete

B30201010 Placement

B30201020 Finishing

B302020 Asphalt B30202010 Placement

B30202020 Finishing

B302030 Rails

C Protection C10 Structure 

Protection

C1010 Slope Walls C101010 Cast-in-Place 

Concrete

C10101010 Reinforcement

C10101020 Placement

C10101030 Finishing

C101020 Asphalt C10102010 Gravel

C10102020 Placement

C101030 Stone

C1020 Expansion 

Joint

C102010 Strip-Seal

C102020 Modular

C102030 Finger Plate

C1030 Protective 

Coats

C103010 Preparation

C103020 Application
47

Level 1

Major Group 

Elements

Level 2

Group Elements

Level 3

Individual Elements

Level 4

Sub-Elements

Level 5

Sub-Elements

Level 5

Field Requirements

C1040 Sacrificial 

Beams

C104010 Fabrication

C104020 Erection

C1050 Drainage 

System

C105010 Scuppers

C105020 Drain Pipes

C105030 Buried Drains C10503010 Pipe

C10503020 Head Wall

C10503030 End Walls

C1060 Inspection and 

Maintenance 

Systems

C106010 Hangers

C106020 Beams

C106030 Platform

C106040 Railing

C106050 Connections

C20 Traffic 

Protection

C2010 Barriers C201010 Parapet

C201020 Railing

C201030 Glare Screen

C201040 Median

C201050 Curb

C201060 Guardrail

C201070 Screen

C2020 Protective 

Shields

C202010 Fabrication

C202020 Erection

C2030 Traffic 

Controls

C203010 Signals

C203020 Arms

C203030 Mast

C203040 Base Plate

C203050 Conduits
48

Level 1

Major Group 

Elements

Level 2

Group Elements

Level 3

Individual Elements

Level 4

Sub-Elements

Level 5

Sub-Elements

Level 5

Field Requirements

C30 Other 

Protection

C3010 Lighting C301010 Lights

C301020 Arms

C301030 Mast

C301040 Base Plate

C301050 Conduits

C3020 Signage C302010 Sign Board

C302020 Support

C302030 Lights

C302040 Conduits

C3030 Sound Barrier 

Walls 

C303010 Panels

C303020 Support

C303030 Connections 

C3040 Air Pressure 

Barriers

C304010 Panels

C304020 Support

C304030 Connections

C3050 Enclosure C305010 Vertical Envelope

C305020 Roof

D Sitework D10 Site 

Preparation

D1010 Clearing and 

Grubbing

D101010 Clearing

D101020 Grubbing

D1020 Demolition and 

Relocation

D102010 Structures

D102020 Utilities

D102030 Trees

D1030 Earthwork D103010 Cut

D103020 Fill

D1040 Hazardous 

Material 

Handling

D104010 Excavation

D104020 Disposal
49

Level 1

Major Group 

Elements

Level 2

Group Elements

Level 3

Individual Elements

Level 4

Sub-Elements

Level 5

Sub-Elements

Level 5

Field Requirements

D1050 Environmental 

Restoration/ 

Replacement

D105010 Environmental 

Restoration

D105020 Environmental 

Replacement

D20 Approach

Construction

D2010 Approach Slab D201010 Reinforcement

D201020 Placement

D201030 Finishing

D2020 Sleeper Slab D202010 Excavation

D202020 Reinforcement

D202030 Placement

D202040 Backfilling

D2030 Earth 

Retention 

System

D203010 Foundation

D203020 Wall

D203030 Cap
50
51

Appendix B An Illustrated Guide to the Proposed UNIFORMAT II 

Classification of Bridge Elements

This appendix is designed as an illustrated guide to the proposed UNIFORMAT II 

classification of bridge elements. The appendix includes diagrams, engineering 

drawings, and, where appropriate, photographs to identify the appearance of each element 

and how it fits into the overall framework.

The figures presented in this appendix are organized around the proposed UNIFORMAT 

II hierarchy. Figures are arranged by Major Group Element and Group Element, with 

Individual Elements clearly marked in the diagram, engineering drawing, or photograph. 

For each Major Group Element, the Group Elements are presented in the sequence they 

are listed in Table 2.2. For each Group Element, the Individual Elements are labeled in 

one of more figures associated with that Group element. In some case, Sub-Elements are 

also listed.

Figure B.1 Major Group Elements: A Substructure, B Superstructure

Source: Illinois Department of Transportation
52

Figure B.2 Group Elements: A10 Piers

Source: Illinois Department of Transportation

Figure B.3 Group Elements: A10 Piers

Source: Alfred Benesch & Company
53

Figure B.4 Individual Elements: A1010 Foundations (Field Requirements: 

A101010X1 (Cofferdam))

Source: Alfred Benesch & Company

Figure B.5 Individual Elements: A1010 Foundations (Sub-Elements: A101010 

Spread Footings (Excavation))

Source: Alfred Benesch & Company
54

Figure B.6 Individual Elements: A1010 Foundations (Sub-Elements: A101020 Piles)

Source: Alfred Benesch & Company

Figure B.7 Individual Elements: A1010 Foundations (Sub-Elements: A101030 

Drilled Shafts)

Source: Illinois Department of Transportation
55

Figure B.8 Individual Elements: A1020 Walls, A1030 Columns, A1040 Cap Beams

Source: Alfred Benesch & Company

Figure B.9 Individual Elements: A1040 Cap Beams (Sub-Elements: A10401020 

Reinforcement)

Source: Alfred Benesch & Company
56

Figure B.10 Individual Elements: A1040 Cap Beams

Source: Alfred Benesch & Company

Figure B.11 Group Elements: A20 Towers

Source: Alfred Benesch & Company
57

Figure B.12 Group Elements: A30 Abutments

Source: Illinois Department of Transportation

Figure B.13 Individual Elements: A3010 Foundations, A3020 Stems, A3030 Wing 

Walls

Source: Illinois Department of Transportation
58

Figure B.14 Individual Elements: A3010 Foundations (Sub-Elements: A301020 

Piles, A30102030 Pile Cap)

Source: Illinois Department of Transportation

Figure B.15 Individual Elements: A3020 Stems

Source: Alfred Benesch & Company
59

Figure B.16 Individual Elements: A3030 Wing Walls

Source: Alfred Benesch & Company

Figure B.17 Group Elements: A40 Other Supports (Individual Elements: A4010 

Thrust Blocks)

Source: Alfred Benesch & Company
60

Figure B.18 Individual Elements: A4010 Thrust Blocks (Sub-Elements: A401020 

Foundations (A40102020 Piles))

Source: Alfred Benesch & Company

Figure B.19 Group Elements: B10 Short Span Assemblies (Individual Elements: 

B1010 Flexural Member, B1020 Diaphragms), B30 Deck

Source: Illinois Department of Transportation
61

Figure B.20 Individual Elements: B1010 Flexural Members, B1020 Diaphragms

Source: Illinois Department of Transportation

Figure B.21 Individual Elements: B1020 Diaphragms

Source: Alfred Benesch & Company
62

Figure B.22 Individual Elements: B1030 Bracings

Source: Illinois Department of Transportation

Figure B.23 Individual Elements: B1030 Bracings

Source: Alfred Benesch & Company
63

Figure B.24 Individual Elements: B1040 Bearings

Source: Alfred Benesch & Company

Figure B.25 Individual Elements: B1010 Flexural Members, B1030 Bracings, B1040 

Bearings

Source: Alfred Benesch & Company
64

Figure B.26 Group Elements: B20 Long Span Assemblies (Individual Elements: 

B2010 Ribs, B2030 Hangers)

Source: Alfred Benesch & Company

Figure B.27 Individual Elements: B2030 Hangers

Source: Alfred Benesch & Company
65

Figure B.28 Individual Elements: B2010 Ribs, B2050 Ties

Source: Alfred Benesch & Company

Figure B.29 Individual Elements: B2040 Spandrels

Source: Alfred Benesch & Company
66

Figure B.30 Individual Elements: B2060 Truss Members

Source: Alfred Benesch & Company

Figure B.31 Individual Elements: B2070 Segmental Box Girders

Source: Alfred Benesch & Company
67

Figure B.32 Group Elements: B30 Deck (Individual Elements: B3010 Structural 

Surface)

Source: Illinois Department of Transportation

Figure B.33 Individual Elements: B3020 Wearing Surface

Source: Illinois Department of Transportation
68

Figure B.34 Group Elements: C10 Structure Protection (Individual 

Elements:C1010 Slope Walls)

Source: Alfred Benesch & Company

Figure B.35 Individual Elements: C1020 Expansion Joints

Source: Alfred Benesch & Company
69

Figure B.36 Individual Elements: C1030 Protection Coats

Source: Alfred Benesch & Company

Figure B.37 Individual Elements: C1040 Sacrificial Beams

Source: Alfred Benesch & Company
70

Figure B.38 Individual Elements: C1050 Drainage Systems

Source: Alfred Benesch & Company

Figure B.39 Individual Elements: C1050 Drainage Systems (Sub-Elements C105030 

Buried Drains (C10503020 Head Walls, C10503030 End Walls))

Source: Alfred Benesch & Company
71

Figure B.40 Individual Elements: C1060 Inspection and Maintenance Systems

Source: Alfred Benesch & Company

Figure B.41 Individual Elements: C2010 Barriers

Source: Illinois Department of Transportation
72

Figure B.42 Group Elements: C30 Other Protection (Individual Elements: C3010 

Lighting)

Source: Illinois Department of Transportation

Figure B.43 Individual Elements: C3010 Lighting, C3020 Signage

Source: Alfred Benesch & Company
73

Figure B.44 Individual Elements: C3020 Signage

Source: Alfred Benesch & Company

Figure B.45 Individual Elements: C3030 Sound Barrier Walls

Source: Alfred Benesch & Company
74

Figure B.46 Individual Elements: C3050 Enclosure

Source: Alfred Benesch & Company

Figure B.47 Major Elements: D Sitework (Group Elements: D10 Site Preparation 

(Individual Elements: D1010 Clearing and Grubbing))

Source: Alfred Benesch & Company
75

Figure B.48 Individual Elements: D1010 Clearing and Grubbing (Sub-Element 

D101010 Clearing (Tree Removal))

Source: Alfred Benesch & Company

Figure B.49 Group Elements: D10 Site Preparation (Individual Elements: D1020 

Demolition and Relocation)

Source: Alfred Benesch & Company
76

Figure B.50 Individual Elements: D1020 Demolition and Relocation

Source: Alfred Benesch & Company

Figure B.51 Individual Elements: D1030 Earthwork

Source: Alfred Benesch & Company
77

Figure B.52 Group Elements: D20 Approach Construction (Individual Elements: 

D2010 Approach Slabs, D2020 Sleeper Slabs)

Source: Illinois Department of Transportation

Figure B.53 Individual Elements: D2030 Earth Retention System

Source: Alfred Benesch & Company
78
79

Appendix C Application of Proposed UNIFORMAT II Classification 

and Sub-Classifications to a Single-Span, Modified Tied-Arch Bridge

C.1 Summary of Key Bridge Characteristics

This appendix uses a case study bridge construction project to demonstrate how to use the 

proposed UNIFORMAT II classification and sub-classifications to analyze and manage 

bridge design and construction costs. The bridge is a dual single-span, modified tied-arch 

carrying six lanes of Interstate 94 (I-94) traffic (three eastbound and three westbound) 

over Telegraph Road in Taylor, Michigan. Figure C.1 provides an overhead view of the 

two bridge structures. This bridge was part of the reconstruction of I-94 for the Super 

Bowl XL game held in 2006. Figures C.2 and C.3 provide different perspectives of the 

bridge as seen from Telegraph Road (Figure C.2) and from I-94 (Figure C.3).

Figure C.154Overhead View of the Gateway Arch Bridge

Source: Alfred Benesch & Company

Many modern bridges are either true arches or tied arches. The modified tied-arch bridge 

in Taylor, Michigan, combined the two concepts for aesthetic and safety reasons. Tied 

arches, where the tie is exposed, might be hit by trucks and are not desirable for grade 

separation structures. True arches, where the thrust must be taken by the foundation 

elements, are exposed to risk when the soil conditions are poor. The Gateway Arch, as it 

is now called, is a signature structure modified to look like a true arch with a tied 

foundation. The thrust blocks are connected below the roadway by a rectangular concrete 

tie beam. The arch ribs are unequal to keep the two bridges closer together. The stiffness 

of the ribs is varied to keep the same deflection. To allow for inspections without 

disturbing the heavy traffic on I-94, the ribs were sealed and pressurized. Pressure 

gauges were added to detect any leaks.
80

Figure C.255Gateway Arch Bridge as Seen from Telegraph Road

Source: Alfred Benesch & Company

Figure C.356Gateway Arch Bridge as Seen from I-94

Source: Alfred Benesch & Company
81

The project team was challenged with two major criteria: cost and structural integrity. 

The team approached the design by analyzing its functions and its worth. The team value 

engineered the conventional design of elements and identified the function, cost, and 

performance of each element using ASTM Standard Practice E 2013.41 If the function 

need/performance is high and cost is low, it has value. If the function need/performance 

is low and cost is high, it becomes a mismatch. When mismatches of conventional 

design are identified, the team develops innovative solutions to create value of the 

elements that has a higher need/performance at a lower cost.

Unique Foundation System

In true arches, the thrust is taken by the foundation supports, such as piles. In tied arches, 

the thrust is taken internally by tie beams. There is no redundancy in case of a failure of 

the thrust resistance. For this modified tied-arch, the longitudinal arch thrust is resisted 

by multiple foundation elements as shown in Figure C.4: the longitudinal foundation ties, 

the transverse foundation ties, and battered piles. The concrete foundation ties, buried 

beneath Telegraph Road (see the photograph on the right-hand side of Figure C.4), are 

sized so that the tensile strength of the concrete is sufficient to carry the arch thrust. 

However, should the concrete crack, there is adequate reinforcement in the tie. There are 

also 10 cm (4 in) diameter open ducts cast in concrete ties. At present, these are capped 

but the tie can be post-tensioned if deemed necessary. In addition, battered piles and 

massive earth pressure against the foundation also resist arch thrust.

Figure C.457Gateway Arch Bridge Foundation System

Source: Alfred Benesch & Company

 

41 ASTM International. “Practice for Constructing FAST Diagrams and Performing Function Analysis 

During Value Analysis Study,” E 2013, op cit.

Longitudinal Foundation Tie

Transverse

Foundation 

Tie

Longitudinal

Foundation 

Tie
82

Arch Ribs

Each structure is a single-span inclined through arch. The interior and exterior arch ribs 

are inclined 25 degrees towards each other. The inclination is limited to 25 degrees in 

order to maintain the desirable vertical clearance. The ribs are braced together using five 

football shaped braces (see Figures C.5 and C.6). The bases of the exterior arch ribs are 

located at the Telegraph Road level, while the bases of the interior ribs are located at the 

I-94 level. This caused the length of the exterior rib and the interior rib to be different. 

The length of the exterior and interior arch ribs are 90.2 m (296 ft) and 78.3 m (257 ft), 

respectively. The span length measured between the east and west abutments is 75.0 m 

(246 ft).

Figure C.558Longitudinal View of the Arch Ribs

Source: Alfred Benesch & Company

The unequal lengths of the arches posed a challenge to the design team. The arch rib 

deflection due to dead and live loads will be different. By carefully varying the stiffness 

of the box while maintaining the outside shape and dimension the same, both the 

appearance and structural integrity were achieved. The inner thrust block is at the road 

level of I-94; the outer thrust block is at the level of Telegraph Road.
83

Figure C.659Transverse View of the Arch Ribs Illustrates Unequal Lengths

Source: Alfred Benesch & Company

The ribs are fixed at each end by the foundation. The arch ribs are a 0.9 m by 1.2 m (3 ft 

by 4 ft) box section. The webs of the ribs are 1.91 cm (0.75 in) thick. The flanges for the 

exterior ribs and interior ribs are 6.35 cm (2.5 in) thick and 5.72 cm (2.25 in) thick, 

respectively.

Maintenance of Arch Ribs

Due to the small size of the arch ribs, future inspection and maintenance of the inside 

portion of the box is virtually impossible. Therefore, the arch ribs, arch braces, and the 

boxed-sections of transverse beams are pressurized with dry air to prevent moist air from 

entering the boxed-sections to cause corrosion. In order to prevent any air leakage from 

the pressurized sections, the top flanges of the arch ribs and braces are welded to the 

webs using a full penetration weld. The bottom flanges are welded to the webs using a 

double side fillet weld. A trapezoidal shape-sealing diaphragm is located inside the arch 

box at each hanger location. The portion inside the sealing diaphragm is not pressurized, 

and an access opening in the web is provided to facilitate inspection of the unsealed 

portion of the arch.
84

Figure C.760Access Opening to the Arch Rib

Source: Alfred Benesch & Company

Access openings in the arch ribs are furnished where the air pressure can be checked (see 

Figure C.7). At each arch rib field splice location, one pressure valve is attached to the 

sealing diaphragm. The arch rib segments are sealed and pressurized with air at 55.2 

kilopascal (kpa) (8.0 pounds per square inch (psi)). If the pressure inside the sealed 

chamber drops by more than 10.3 kpa (1.5 psi) from the 55.2 kpa (8 psi) norm, then the 

reason for the air leak should be investigated.

Redundancy of Hanger Assembly

Each arch has 14 hanger assemblies that transfer the loads from the deck to the arch ribs. 

The hanger assembly posed a number of challenges. First, the hangers were changed 

from rods to strands. Because the hangers are a critical element in carrying the load, it 

was decided to increase the redundancy. Thus, each hanger assembly has a pair of 

strands, each one capable of carrying the total load (see the photograph on the left-hand 

side of Figure C.8).

Figure C.861Hanger Assembly and Neoprene Transition Boots

Source: Alfred Benesch & Company
85

Each hanger assembly consists of two 5.4 cm (2.125 in) diameter, ASTM A586 structural 

stands, spaced 38.1 cm (15 in) center to center. The inner wires of each strand are 

galvanized with Class A coating, while the outer wires are galvanized with Class C 

coating. Each strand is attached to the arch ribs using a 4.45 cm (1.75 in) thick hanger 

support plate and ASTM A148 Grade 105/85 galvanized open type socket.

Neoprene transition boots, secured to 25.4 cm (10 in) diameter standard pipe, welded to 

the transverse beams and to the strands using stainless steel clamps, are used to prevent 

moisture from entering inside the connections between the transverse beams and the 

strands and to enhance aesthetics (see the photograph on the right-hand side of Figure 

C.8). A hanger separator is installed between the two strands of each hanger assembly 

for the middle ten hangers. Hanger separators increase in-plane stiffness of the strands 

by constraining the relative motions between them and increasing the stiffness of the 

hanger against transverse winds.

The bridge was designed to facilitate the replacement of individual strands. Each strand 

of the pair is capable of supporting the deck and the full live load while the other is 

replaced.

C.2 Cost Accounting Framework

The costs of each element are organized around the proposed UNIFORMAT II 

classification of bridge elements, as described in Table 2.3. Because these costs have 

associated with them project management functions and risk management functions, two 

additional tables are needed. Table C.1 covers program management-related costs and 

Table C.2 covers risk management-related costs. Each table is organized as a three-level 

hierarchy.
86

Table C.1 Classification Hierarchy for Program Management-Related Costs

Level 1 Level 2 Level 3

Major Group Classification Group Classification Individual Classification

X Project Management X10 Field Requirements X1005 Bonds, Permits, Fees, and Insurance

X1010 Field/Site Set-Up and Accommodation

X1015 Management, Supervision, and Field Engineering

X1020 Personnel Travel and Lodging

X1025 Safety and Protection

X1030 Construction Aids, Equipment, and Tools

X1035 Temporary Construction

X1040 Climatic and Environmental Requirements

X1045 Quality Control, Inspection, and Testing

X1050 Maintenance and Housekeeping

X1090 Other Contractural Requirements

X20 Office Overhead and Profit X2010 Home Office Overhead

X2020 Profit

Table C.2 Classification Hierarchy for Risk Management-Related Costs

Level 1 Level 2 Level 3

Major Group Classification Group Classification Individual Classification

Y Risk Management Y10 Allowance Y1010 Specific

Y1020 Nonspecific

Y20 Contingency Y2010 Specific

Y2020 Nonspecific

Y30 Reserve Sums Y3010 Specific

Y3020 Nonspecific
87

The prefix in Table C.1 is X indicating its relationship to Table 1 in ASTM E 2083, 

Standard Classification for Building Construction Field Requirements and Office 

Overhead and Profit. Level 1 in the hierarchy contains the single entry X Project 

Management. Level 2 in the hierarchy contains two entries: X10 Field Requirements and 

X20 Office Overhead and Profit. Level 3 entries under X10 Field Requirements include 

such cost items as X1030 Construction Aids, Equipment, and Tools (e.g., cranes and 

scaffolding) and X1035 Temporary Construction (e.g., coffer dams).

The Prefix in Table C.2 is Y indicating its relationship to ASTM E 2168, Standard 

Classification for Allowance, Contingency, and Reserve Sums in Building Construction 

Estimating. Due to the unique characteristics of the Gateway Arch Bridge, ASTM 

E 2168 was of particular importance. Level 1 in the hierarchy contains the single entry Y 

Risk Management. Level 2 in the hierarchy contains three entries: Y10 Allowance, Y20 

Contingency, and Y30 Reserve Sums. The two Level 3 entries under Y10 Allowance 

are: Y1010 Specific and Y1020 Nonspecific. There are similar breakdowns for Y20 

Contingency and Y30 Reserve Sums. For example, under Y20 Contingency, Y2010 

Specific covers planning contingency, design contingency, and construction contingency, 

whereas Y2020 Nonspecific covers overall unexpected events or items. As the project 

progresses, some of the planning and design contingencies will be moved into the base 

cost. Construction contingency will remain until the construction is complete.

In addition to the three risk management terms—allowance, contingency, and reserve 

sums—included in ASTM E 2168, it is useful to introduce a fourth term, base cost. Base 

cost includes all costs for the construction work including all trade costs and the prime 

contractor’s field requirements and office overhead and profit reported in Table C.1. It is 

instructive to review the relationship between these four cost terms. Understanding these 

relationships is at the heart of analyzing and managing design and construction costs for 

complex projects such as the Gateway Arch Bridge. Base cost plus allowance is 

designated as the minimum cost. Base cost plus allowance and contingency is designated 

as the expected cost. Base cost plus allowance, contingency, and reserve sums is 

designated as the maximum cost.

C.3 Cost Analysis of the Gateway Arch Bridge Using the Proposed 

UNIFORMAT II Elemental Classification and Sub-Classifications

The total cost for one of the two bridge structures making up the Gateway Arch Bridge is 

$6.76 million. Since the two bridge structures are identical, their total costs are the same. 

The cost analysis of the Gateway Arch Bridge using the proposed UNIFORMAT II 

elemental classification and sub-classifications is presented in Table C.3 and summarized 

in Figure C.9. Table C.3 records information for each of the five levels in the proposed 

UNIFORMAT II bridge classification. Table C.3 includes alphanumeric designations 

and element/sub-element names, dollar values, percent of total cost associated with those 

dollar values, and unit costs. Figure C.9 records the cost distribution of selected Group 

Elements and Individual Elements. The costs summarized in Figure C.9 are the major 

Substructure and Superstructure Group Elements and Individual Elements; they account 

for approximately 85 % of the Gateway Arch Bridge’s total cost.
88

Table C.3 Cost Analysis of the Gateway Arch Bridge Using the Proposed UNIFORMAT II Elemental Classification and Sub-Classifications

Level 5

A30102010 Test Piles 1 Each $16,575.00 $16,575

$1,369,210 20.5% $823,485 12.3% A30102020 Piles 7060 f t $30.00 $211,800

Cost/ Sq.Ft $74.51 Cost/ Sq.Ft $44.82 A10102030 Pile Cap 90 y d3 $450.00 $40,500

A30201010 Reinforcement 94200 l b $0.75 $70,650

A30201020 Placement (includes 

A302010X1 Formwork) 785 y d3 $600.00 $471,000

A30301010 Reinforcement 3200 l b $0.80 $2,560

A30301010 Placement 16 y d3 $650.00 $10,400

A40101010 Reinforcement 63175 l b $1.00 $63,175

$545,725 8.2%

A40101020 Placement (includes 

A401010X1 Formwork) 361 y d3 $750.00 $270,750

Cost/ Sq.Ft $29.70 A401020 Foundations 3.17% $211,800 A40102020 Piles 7060 f t $30.00 $211,800

B10103010 Fabrication 852749 l b $1.00 $852,749

$4,493,274 67.3% $1,772,355 26.6%

Cost/ Sq.Ft $244.53 Cost/ Sq.Ft $96.45

B10202010 Fabrication 42000 l b $1.00 $42,000

B10202020 Erection 42000 l b $0.75 $31,500

B10301010 Fabrication 66611 l b $1.20 $79,933

B10301020 Erection 66611 l b $1.00 $66,611

B1040 Bearings 0.90% $60,000 B104020 Sliding 0.90% $60,000 12 Each $5,000.00 $60,000

B20103010 Fabrication 664639 l b $1.20 $797,567

$2,063,325 30.9% B20103020 Erection 664639 l b $1.00 $664,639

Cost/ Sq.Ft $112.29 B2030 Hangers 5.25% $350,450 5.25% $350,450 1630 Lin ft $215.00 $350,450

B20501010 Reinforcement 74461.5 l b $0.80 $59,569

B20501020 Placement 294 y d3 $650.00 $191,100

B30101010 Reinforcement 209180 l b $0.80 $167,344

$657,594 9.9% B30101020 Placement 475 y d3 $650.00 $308,750

Cost/ Sq.Ft $35.79 B3020 Wearing Surface 2.72% $181,500 2420 y d2 $75.00 $181,500

$186,440 2.8% $4,000 0.1%

Cost/ Sq.Ft $10.15 Cost/ Sq.Ft $0.22

C2010 Barriers 0.49% $33,000 66 y d3 $500.00 $33,000

$57,440 0.9%

Cost/ Sq.Ft $3.13

$125,000 1.9%

Cost/ Sq.Ft $6.80

D1010 Clearing and Grubbing 0.97% $65,000 1 Each $65,000.00 $65,000

$624,998 9.4% $572,938 8.6% D1020 Demolition and Relocation 7.25% $483,615 1 Each $483,615.00 $483,615

Cost/ Sq.Ft $34.01 Cost/ Sq.Ft $31.18 D1030 Earthwork 0.36% $24,323 D103010 Cut 0.36% $24,323 2115 y d3 $11.50 $24,323

D20 Approach Construction D2010 Approach Slabs 0.72% $48,060 267 y d2 $180.00 $48,060

$52,060 0.8%

Cost/ Sq.Ft $2.83

Total Bridge Cost $6,673,921

245 F t

7 5 F t

18375 Sq.Ft $363.21

l b

C1020 Expansion Joint 0.06% $4,000 80 Lin ft $50.00

B3010 Structural Surface

852749

$4,000

Deck Area of Bridge

B20 Long Span Assemblies B2010 Ribs B201030 Steel 21.91% $1,462,206

B2050 Ties B205010 Cast- in- Place 

Concrete

3.76% $250,669

21.91% $1,462,206

3.76% $250,669

C20 Traffic protection

C2020 Protective Shields 

Cost/ Sq.Ft

Length of Bridge (Back to Back of Abutments)

Width of Bridge (Back to Back of Barriers)

B30 Deck

Level 1 Level 2

Major Group 

Elements Group Elements Individual Elements Sub Elements

B301010 Cast- in- Place 

Concrete

7.13% $476,094

$73,500

2.20% $146,544

B1010 Flexural Members B101030 Steel

A3030 Wing walls A303010 Cast -in- Place 

Concrete

0.19% $12,960

A Substruture A30 Abutments 

A3010 Foundation

C Protection C10 Structure Protection

B Superstructure B10 Short span assemblies

A3020 Stems

$0.75 $639,562

A40 Other Supports 

A4010 Thrust Blocks A401010 Cap 5.00% $333,925

B1020 Diaphragms B102020 Steel 1.10% $73,500

B1030 Bracings B103010 Steel 2.20% $146,544

$1,492,311

1.10%

Bridge Geometry

Field Requirements Quantity

Level 4

Cost 

% Total 

Cost 

Level 3

% Total 

Cost Cost 

$125,000

D Sitework D10 Site Preparation

D2020 Sleeper Slabs

Unit Unit Cost Amount

Details

C30 Other Protection

C3010 Lighting

0.06% $4,000 80 f t $4,000

$24,440

1.87% $125,000 1 Each $125,000.00

y d2 0.37% $24,440 24440 $1.00

$50.00

4.03% $268,875

8.12% $541,650

0.19% $12,960

22.36% $1,492,311

8.18% $545,725

22.36%

A301020 Piles 4.03% $268,875

7.13% $476,094

A302010 Cast -in-Place 

Concrete

8.12% $541,650

B10103020 Erection
89

Figure C.962Cost Distribution of Selected Group Elements and Individual Elements for the Gateway Arch Bridge

Source: Alfred Benesch & Company
90

Table C.3 is organized so that the costs from each lower level in the UNIFORMAT II 

hierarchy can be easily aggregated. The first four columns correspond to Levels 1, 2, 3, 

and 4 of the proposed UNIFORMAT II elemental classification. The last five columns 

list any Level 5 Sub Elements, as well as item alphanumeric designation and name, 

quantities, units of measure, unit costs, and item cost. Two intermediate columns 

summarize the cost characteristics of each Level 4 Sub Element. In several cases—

B3020 Wearing Surface—the entries correspond to the Level 3 Individual element. The

two intermediate columns show the cost of the Level 4 Sub Element, which is obtained 

by summing over all Level 5 Sub Elements associated with that Level 4 Sub Element,

and the per cent of total cost associated with that cost. For example, the Level 4 Sub 

Element, A301020 Piles, has a cost of $269 000. Given that the total cost of the bridge is 

$6.76 million, this value represents 4.03 % of the total cost.

The cost of a Level 3 Individual Element is obtained by summing over all of its Level 4 

Sub Elements. In a similar fashion, the cost of a Level 2 Group Element is obtained by 

summing over all of its Level 3 Individual Elements and the cost of a Level 1 Major 

Group Element is obtained by summing over all of its Level 2 Group Elements. The cost 

for each Major Group Element and Group Element, along with its per cent of total cost 

and unit cost, are recorded in the first two columns of Table C.3. Note that some Group 

Elements have a single Level 3 Individual Element. For example, Group Element A40, 

Other Supports, has a single Individual Element, A4010 Thrust Blocks. In such cases the 

values recorded under the Level 2 Group Element heading correspond to those associated 

with the Level 3 Individual Element.

The values recorded in Table C.3 provide the basis for Figure C.9. Figure C.9 presents a 

cost distribution of selected Group Elements and Individual Elements tied to a graphical

representation of a longitudinal view of the Gateway Arch Bridge. The figure includes 

the alphanumeric string, the name of the Group Element or Individual Element, its cost, 

and its per cent of total cost. Two Group Elements and six Individual Elements are 

highlighted in Figure C.9. Reference to Figure C.9 reveals that the Level 2 Group 

Element A30 Abutment has a cost of $824 000, which corresponds to 12.3 % of the total 

cost. The other Level 2 Group Element shown in Figure C.9, B30 Deck, has a cost of 

$658 000 or 9.9 % of total cost. Two Individual Elements, B1010 Flexural Members and 

B2010 Ribs, are of particular importance, since they each represent more than 20 % of 

the total cost of the bridge. Table C.3 and Figure C.9 illustrate how the proposed 

UNIFORMAT II elemental classification can be used to focus attention on those 

elements that drive the overall costs of a bridge project, as well as those elements that are 

associated with special characteristics—in this case the unique foundation system—of a 

particular bridge.

The Gateway Arch Bridge won six awards, including two national awards. The two 

national awards were the 2006 Outstanding Project Award from the National Council of 

structural Engineers Association and the 2007 Prize Bridge—Medium Span Award from 

the National Steel Bridge Alliance. In addition to the two national awards, the Gateway 

Arch Bridge won the 2006 Best Medium Structure Award from the Structural Engineers 

Association of Illinois; the 2006 Engineering Honorable Conceptor Award from the 
91

Michigan Chapter of the American Council of Engineering Companies; the 2008 

Partnering Award from the Michigan Construction Quality Partnership; and the 2008 

Making a Difference Gold Award for Partnering from the National Partnership for 

Highway Quality. A major criterion for its selection as an award recipient was its cost 

effectiveness.