The Hampton Roads Bridge-Tunnel Expansion

The 3.3 billion Hampton Roads Bridge-Tunnel (HRBT) Expansion Project in Virginia, a monumental undertaking designed to alleviate traffic congestion and enhance connectivity, is making significant strides towards a future of improved infrastructure. The HRBT is Virginia’s largest infrastructure project to date, and one of the most ambitious civil engineering projects in North America. A critical element underpinning the project’s ambitious goal of a 100-year service life is the strategic use of stainless steel reinforcing steel, much of which is supplied by Salit Specialty Rebar.

The HRBT Expansion, widening a 10-mile segment of Interstate 64 between Hampton and Norfolk, involves the construction of new twin-lane tunnels and the replacement or widening of numerous bridges. The project adds new twin tunnels beneath the Hampton Roads waterway, expands highway capacity, and improves traffic flow for the nearly 100,000 vehicles daily.

This region’s coastal environment presents a formidable challenge: the constant exposure to corrosive salt spray. This harsh marine atmosphere necessitates materials that can withstand a marine environment preventing the premature deterioration of structures that has plagued older infrastructure.

To combat this, project designers took the decision to incorporate stainless steel reinforcement in key areas, particularly in the concrete decks of the new marine trestles. This choice significantly reduces the likelihood of future rehabilitation needs, offering superior corrosion resistance compared to traditional reinforcement. The project’s commitment to a century-long service life underscores the importance of this material selection.

Playing a pivotal role in the expansion project is Salit Specialty Rebar (SSR), North America’s premier fabricator and distributor of stainless steel rebar. With extensive experience and dedicated facilities for stainless steel rebar fabrication, Salit Specialty Rebar provides the specialized products and expertise required for such demanding projects. Their ability to supply on-time delivery of high-quality stainless steel reinforcing bar for the tunnels and marine substructures, accessories, and pre-assembly components fabricated to specifications ensured the structural integrity and long-term durability of the HRBT Expansion.

The collaboration between the HRBT Expansion Project and Salit Specialty Rebar highlights a forward-thinking approach to infrastructure development. By leveraging the inherent corrosion resistance of stainless steel, the project will deliver a robust and resilient transportation artery that will serve the Hampton Roads region for generations, minimizing maintenance and maximizing efficiency in a challenging environment.