HAL Group Inc. was retained by Stantec on behalf of the Seaway International Bridge Corporation Ltd. to complete a detailed substructure condition evaluation of the Three Nations Bridge Crossing – South Channel Bridge. HAL completed inspections on both the Canadian and United States sides of the bridge, demonstrating cross-border expertise and coordination on this critical international crossing. This work supports ongoing asset management and long-term performance planning for this critical international crossing.

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SCOPE, ACCESS AND EXECUTION STRATEGY

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The evaluation focused on key substructure elements, including abutment walls, wingwalls, and piers. Detailed visual inspections and hammer sounding were conducted using boom lifts to identify areas of delamination and deterioration across accessible concrete surfaces. Given the scale and configuration of the structure, specialized access methods and coordinated work planning were required to safely complete inspections. HAL Group Inc. implemented tailored methodologies to ensure efficient data collection while maintaining safety and minimizing disruption to bridge operations.

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MATERIAL TESTING AND CORROSION ASSESSMENT

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Concrete cores were extracted from selected piers to assess in-situ material properties. Laboratory testing included compressive strength and chloride ion analysis, while internal examination of core holes allowed for direct observation of reinforcing steel and evaluation of corrosion conditions.

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LESSONS LEARNED / VALUE ADD

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• Data-Driven Decision Making
  The detailed substructure evaluation provided Stantec and Seaway International Bridge Corp. with high-quality data on concrete integrity and reinforcement conditions, supporting informed decisions for maintenance and rehabilitation planning.

• Targeted Corrosion Assessment
  By extracting cores and assessing chloride levels and reinforcement corrosion, HAL Group Inc. added value through actionable insights into long-term durability risks that are often missed in visual inspections alone.

• Customized Access Solutions
  Specialized boom lift operations and tailored work plans ensured safe and efficient inspection of complex bridge elements, demonstrating innovative approaches to working on large-scale, multi-span structures.

• Enhanced Safety & Operational Continuity
  The methodology minimized disruption to active traffic lanes while ensuring the safety of personnel, highlighting the importance of careful planning and execution in operational bridge environments.

• Supporting Lifecycle Management
  The collected data and reports provide a benchmark for future monitoring, helping extend the service life of the bridge and reducing long-term maintenance costs.