TRAFFIC BRIDGE.

Waikato Times, Volume 113, Issue 18878, 23 February 1933, Page 6

TRAFFIC BRIDGE.

PROBLEM OF REPAIRS. STRENGTHENING FOUNDATIONS. OTHER PROPOSALS OUTLINED. “In connection with the bridge problem, far from our work being ended it is on the other hand just commencing,” said the borough engineer, Mr R. Worley, in a statement submitted to the Borough Council last evening. “We were unable to proceed with ‘the planning of the reconstruction of the present bridge until we knew whether the new bridge was going to be built. “If it had to he a rush job the different set of conditions resulting would have necessitated a different type of reconstruction from that which will now he possible To perpetuate the faults of the present design would lie absurd if they can ho avoided. The aim is to build a deck very much lighter than the present one, thus relieving ilic pressure on the foundations; also to remove Hie gas pipe to another position, widen the footwalk and abolish Hie hand-railing. “Wo have been investigating the possibility .of chemical solidilleation of Hie sand below lhe foundation. The company that lias successfully carried out similar work on Hie Continent Is a German one. II will not divulge the nature of the chemicals used, but is prepared to quote for the carrying out of I lie work with ils own staff. 'I Ids would he a very costly job. We are i shortly going In carry out a series of : experiments witli chemicals which we have reason to believe may piuduoo the desired effect. ” However, now that we will he in a position to remove the whole of the (jock the prospects of enlarging the hearing surface of Hie skew-hack foumlalions appear brighter, and we are walling upon Hie arrival of some new boring gear from England . lo rarry out the necessary investigation. “ Although It will probably he nearly two years before we are able to proceed with Hie scheme of reconstruction il is necessary Lo have all the details decided upon, structural plans prepared, etc., at an early date, as much of the material will he required from British manufacturers.”