The product of this study is the AASHTO LRFD Movable Highway Bridge Design Specifications adopted in 1999. Because the specifications include a comprehensive commentary explaining the background of the specification requirements, a final report on this project was not published in the NCHRP series.

Movable bridges are an essential part of the transportation infrastructure. The AASHTO Standard Specifications for Movable Highway Bridges serve as the primary guidance for these structures. Nevertheless, these specifications were in need of major updating to accommodate current practice and technology. Significant changes in electrical, mechanical, and structural design practice have taken place since the last update of the specifications in 1988.

The objective of this research was to develop recommended specifications for the design, fabrication, and erection of movable highway bridges. The specifications developed are based on current practice and technology and are consistent with the format and philosophy of the AASHTO LRFD Bridge Design Specifications.