Effective Use of Public Involvement to Achieve Aesthetic Quality in Bridge Design

The author relates his personal experience as the project manager in the replacement of four bridges in Columbus, Ohio, that utilized public involvement to achieve aesthetic quality in the bridge designs. The successful use of public involvement in the design process by the Franklin County Engineer’s Office is outlined. Public involvement used as part of the design process has yielded a string of award-winning bridges for the Franklin County Engineer’s Office and has added tremendous civic value to the community. The important aspects of public involvement are identified, and the design process used and the efforts required by the county engineer’s office for the replacement of urban bridges having historical significance or civic importance are outlined. Also illustrated is how engineers are able to maintain control of their projects throughout the design process. Involvement can be an effective tool for designers to achieve higher aesthetic quality in bridge design.