Walls, buried structures, bearings & other structural elements for bridges & structures

Find design requirements and guidance for ancillary structures and appurtenances.

Design memorandum

Design memorandum are issued as interim updates to the Bridge Design Manual. Active design memorandums supersede the Bridge Design Manual contents and are currently enforced.

 Related manual chapters

Chapter 8 - Walls and Buried Structures (PDF 3.0MB) provides design guidance for retaining walls, noise barrier walls and buried structures.

Chapter 9 - Bearings and Expansion Joints (PDF 1.5MB) provides design guidance for small, medium and large movement expansion joints, standard bearings and seismic isolation bearings.

Chapter 10 - Sign, Barrier, Approach Slabs, and Utilities (PDF 8.6MB) provides design guidance for structural appurtenances and topics including:

  • Sign and luminaire supports
  • Traffic barriers, railings, and barrier rehabilitation
  • Approach slabs
  • Utility installation son new and existing structures
  • Anchorage of permanent attachments
  • Drainage design
  • Bridge security
  • Temporary bridges

Bridge Design Manual 

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

See all manuals and standards

Slow down on ice and snow.

It's easier to skid or lose control traveling at higher speeds. Give yourself more time to stop.

Carry chains, practice installing them.

Winter conditions could mean chains are required on your route. Practice putting them on your vehicle ahead of time.

Pack your winter car kit.

Carry extra supplies like warm clothing, ice scraper and brush, jumper cables and other emergency items.