Seismic design for bridges & structures

Find seismic design and retrofit information for new and existing structures.

Related manual chapters

Chapter 4 - Seismic Design and Retrofit (PDF 4.7MB) provides guidance for expected bridge performance and post-earthquake service levels. This chapter details WSDOT additions and modifications to the AASHTO Guide Specifications for LRFD Seismic Bridge Design. It also includes design requirements for widening projects, retrofit projects and walls and buried structures.

Bridge Design Manual 

Complete Bridge design guidance is found in the Bridge Design Manual (M 23-50).

See all manuals and standards

Slow down – lives are on the line.

Drive the posted speeds, they’re there for your safety.

Phone down, eyes up.

Pay attention – both to workers directing you and to surrounding traffic.

Stay calm

Expect delays, leave early or take an alternate route if possible; no appointment is worth risking someone’s life.