SERVICE OVERVIEW
Krech Ojard is a multi-disciplinary, team-focused engineering and architecture firm. Our approach provides clients with comprehensive services, addressing every aspect of a project. With an unparalleled ability to respond to the needs and concerns of our clients, our Rail Group brings cost-effective, real-world solutions to the most unique and challenging projects.
Our founders and staff have decades of industry experience in the design, maintenance, construction, and operations of railroads. Our expert solutions are derived from our employees' unique first-hand experience in the field and are provided through the skills of individuals versed in multiple engineering disciplines.
With a staff possessing a depth of experience in the fields of civil, structural and rail engineering and construction, we are positioned to offer a full spectrum of services, while providing exceptional service and support to meet your individual needs. We are dedicated to a client-oriented focus and the highest level of personal support.
RAILROAD BRIDGE MANAGEMENT PROGRAMS
Per the Federal Railroad Association’s (FRA) Code of Federal Regulations Title 49, Part 237 “Bridge Safety Standards” (49 CFR 237) all railroads shall adopt a Bridge Management Program (BMP) and shall establish Safe Load Capacities for each bridge. The FRA requires that these items be completed by the following deadlines:
| FRA 49 CFR 237 Requirements – Rail Bridge Management Plans and Safe Load Capacities |
| Railroad Class | Adoption of Bridge Management Program | Establish Safe Load Capacities for Bridges |
Class I Carriers
Owners of track segments which are part of the general railroad system of transportation and which carry more than ten scheduled passenger trains per week
| March 14, 2011 | March 14, 2016 |
| Class II Carriers | September 13, 2011 | September 13, 2016 |
| All Other Track Owners | September 13, 2012 | September 13, 2017 |
According to the FRA 49 CFR 237, a Bridge Management Program shall include:
- An accurate inventory of railroad bridges (including location, configuration, type of construction, number of spans, span lengths, and other necessary information for bridge safety management);
- a record of the Safe Load Capacity of each bridge;
- a provision to obtain and maintain the design documents of each bridge if available, and to document all repairs, modifications, and inspections of each bridge; and
- a Bridge Inspection Program.
With the adoption of the FRA’s 49 CFR 237 “Bridge Safety Standards,” a large amount of work is required to bring the nation’s existing railway systems up to standards. Many rail lines were constructed in the late 1800’s and early 1900’s and lack adequate information to meet the requirements as laid out in the 49 CFR 237.
Our staff has the expertise and experience needed to create a Bridge Management Program and to provide the services required within the BMP. At KOA, we have a background in the design of new railroad bridges, repair designs for existing bridges, and the load rating of existing bridges. Our staff also has experience in bridge inspections and bridge management including creating an inventory of bridge inspection, design, and repair/modification documents.
