What Is Accelerated Bridge Construction (ABC)?
Accelerated Bridge Construction (ABC) uses prefabricated components, like decks, girders, and abutments, which are built off-site and installed quickly on location. These bridge components are often part of integrated bridge systems or slide-in bridge construction strategies designed to save onsite construction time, reduce traffic disruptions, and improve safety for crews and drivers. ABC works for time-sensitive projects and heavy traffic areas across Tennessee that cannot close for an extended period of time.
Dement Construction applies innovative planning and proven ABC technologies to help public agencies and project teams upgrade or replace bridges without compromising safety or durability.
Key Advantages of Accelerated Bridge Construction
Minimized Traffic Disruption
ABC reduces the number of days a bridge site is closed, which can help with traffic flow and reduce public inconvenience.
Faster Completion Times
With prefabricated bridge components ready to install, bridge projects can be completed faster, making ABC technologies ideal for high-traffic corridors or locations with limited seasonal access.
Lower Public Risk
Shorter construction windows lower the chances of accidents around the site, improving safety for drivers, pedestrians, and construction workers.
Consistent Quality and Durability
Speed doesn’t mean compromise. Prefabricated elements in accelerated bridge construction are held to the same structural standards as conventional construction methods. Each deck, beam, and abutment is built in a controlled environment, thoroughly inspected before delivery, and installed with precision.
Cost Efficiency Over Time
Accelerated bridge construction methods reduce the indirect project costs of extended detours, traffic control, and inconvenience to the public.
How We Deliver Accelerated Bridge Projects
Project Planning & Pre-Construction Coordination
We work with DOTs, engineers, and project teams to coordinate our bridge construction efforts with the overall project schedule.
Off-Site Prefabrication
Prefabricated bridge elements and systems (PBES) such as girders, deck panels, abutments, pier caps, approach slabs, and other foundation and wall elements are built off-site in a controlled environment, allowing us to work in tandem with demolition, utility relocation, or rapid embankment construction.
This approach improves quality assurance by protecting structural components and providing crews with more stable working conditions. It’s also easier to perform inspections in a shop setting rather than in the field.
Rapid On-Site Installation
We map out every step, according to a tightly sequenced plan, accounting for crane setups, rigging points, traffic coordination, utility clearance, and worker safety.
These steps are based on field-tested logistics, refined through experience across a wide range of ABC projects, so our team knows what needs to happen and when.
Depending on site conditions and traffic requirements, installation may be completed over a weekend, during overnight closures, or in short, targeted phases.
Traffic Management
As part of our pre-construction planning, we work with DOTs, local transportation officials, and engineers to understand the volume and flow of traffic around the jobsite.
Proudly Serving Tennessee and the Southeast
Dement Construction provides ABC bridge construction services throughout Middle and East Tennessee, the Memphis metro, and beyond.
We’ve worked on projects in and around Nashville, Knoxville, and along major corridors, partnering with TDOT and local governments to replace bridges, extend service life, and upgrade aging infrastructure.
S.R. 91 Over the Broglen River
Cullman County, Alabama | Alabama DOT
In Cullman County, north of Birmingham, Alabama, we built a four-span bridge structure totaling 463 feet across the Broglen River. The site posed a challenge; one side dropped off into a bluff, the other sloped steeply toward the river. Our team used ABC methods to install the new structure efficiently while maintaining site access and protecting the surrounding landscape.
S.R. 13 Over the Buffalo River
Perry County, Tennessee | Tennessee DOT | Completed June 2023
In Cullman County, north of Birmingham, Alabama, we built a four-span bridge structure totaling 463 feet across the Broglen River. The site posed a challenge; one side dropped off into a bluff, the other sloped steeply toward the river. Our team used ABC methods to install the new structure efficiently while maintaining site access and protecting the surrounding landscape.
A Trusted Partner for Fast, Safe Bridge Projects
Over 45 Years of Infrastructure Experience
Since 1977, Dement Construction has delivered heavy civil projects across Tennessee and the Southeast. Our portfolio includes bridge replacements, interstate overpasses, and structural repairs under various site conditions. This experience allows us to anticipate challenges, adapt to changing conditions, and maintain project momentum, even when working within limited access, tight schedules, or live traffic zones.
Deep Understanding of DOT Project Needs
We have an established track record with agencies like the Federal Highway Administration, Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT), the Arkansas Department of Transportation (ARDOT), and the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC). As accelerated bridge construction contractors, we understand agency expectations, permitting processes, and the detailed documentation required for public-sector projects.
Proven Safety and Scheduling Performance
In addition to training our crew on site-specific safety protocols and project-specific requirements, we conduct regular safety audits and equipment checks to maintain a safe working environment at every stage of construction.
We also plan for site logistics, traffic control, utility conflicts, and weather delays up front so they don’t slow us down later.
Regional Leadership in Bridge and Highway Work
Dement Construction is widely recognized as a leading bridge and highway contractor by public agencies and private partners.
Our ability to combine regional experience with field-tested solutions is one of the reasons why we’re trusted to lead critical infrastructure work across Tennessee and the Southeast.
Let’s Talk About Your Bridge Construction Needs
ABC techniques offer a faster, more efficient way to complete bridge projects, with fewer closures, less disruption, and reliable long-term performance.
Our team has worked with DOT officials, engineers, and municipal planners across Tennessee and the Southeast, helping them repair and upgrade existing bridges and build new bridges altogether.
If you’re ready to move forward or just want to see if ABC is the right fit, email us at info@dementconstruction.com or call (731) 424-6306 to discuss your priorities.
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