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Rees Jeffreys Road Fund Transport Msc Bursary Scheme To Continue

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Apr 10, 2025

Highway News

Highway News

Rees Jeffreys Road Fund will once again be running the Transport MSc Bursary programme for 2025-26. Funding is available for course fees for both full and part time students.

All applications for funding are to be made through one of the 14 universities participating in the scheme, rather than students contacting Rees Jeffreys Road Fund. The deadline for applications is 10am on Friday 27 June 2025. Potential applicants are encouraged to contact universities now to discuss their plans to study for an MSc. More information is available at Bursaries – Rees Jeffreys Road Fund.

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Rac Predicts Busiest Easter Bank Holiday On The Roads In Three Years With 19M Trips Expected

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7.5T Weight Limit To Be Introduced On Deteriorating M48 Severn Bridge

New Civil Engineer (Road)

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Kansas Awards $8.1 Million To Boost Rural Road Safety

Roads & Bridges

Kansas Awards $8.1 Million To Boost Rural Road SafetyKansas Gov. Laura Kelly announced last week that 11 rural road projects across Kansas will receive more than $8.1 million in federal funding through the state’s High Risk Rural Roads (HRRR) Program. The initiative, part of the Eisenhower Legacy Transportation (IKE) Program, is aimed at improving safety on rural roadways by upgrading signage, intersections and other critical infrastructure. “By improving intersections, signage, and other critical roadway features, we are building momentum for a safer, stronger Kansas,” Kelly said in a statement. The HRRR program is funded through the federal Highway Safety Improvement Program, with an additional $1.6 million in local matching funds supporting the selected projects. The 11 projects were chosen from 29 applications requesting nearly $30 million. “With over 20% of fatal and serious injury crashes occurring on county roads, strong partnerships will be necessary to achieve the goal of zero roadway fatalities,” said Kansas Transportation Secretary Calvin Reed. Projects include shoulder additions in Ellsworth, Finney, Meade and Pratt counties; upgraded signage in Osborne and Trego counties; and pavement markings, rumble strips and safety enhancements in several others. The projects fall under two categories: systemic improvements across multiple roadways or site-specific upgrades targeting high-risk areas. Source: Kansas Department of Transportation, Ransonfinanicial.com

Entry Points Into Steel Reuse For Bridges Identified In ‘Groundbreaking’ Report

New Civil Engineer (Bridge)

Entry Points Into Steel Reuse For Bridges Identified In ‘Groundbreaking’ ReportDetailed analysis of the barriers and opportunities to reuse steel in bridge design has been laid out in a “groundbreaking” new report. Expedition Engineering has published Steel Reuse in Bridges, which examines the reuse of structural steel in bridge design and construction. Led by Expedition Engineering project director Clotilde Robin and principal researcher Hazel Needham, it provides insights into overcoming barriers to implementing circular economy principles in infrastructure projects. It also outlines the steel and steel reuse lifecycle to demonstrate how steel can be reclaimed from existing infrastructure assets and the demolition market. Steel Reuse in Bridges - steel lifecycle diagram Sustainability With the construction sector under increasing pressure to decarbonise, the report, which was supported by funding from the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE), highlights how steel reuse offers a viable, cost-effective, and sustainable alternative to traditional recycling methods. Despite advancements in recycled or “green steel”, the report emphasises that reducing demand through reuse remains a crucial sustainability strategy. “Simply recycling steel is no longer enough - proactive efforts to reuse existing materials with minimal post-processing will be essential in addressing the climate crisis,” the report says. NCE has previously reported that steel reuse offers up to 97% embodied carbon savings compared to using new steel and is 10 times less carbon intensive than recycling, according to not-for-profit organisation the Alliance for Sustainable Building Products (ASBP). Figures from the UK Green Building Council (UKGBC) confirm 99% of all UK structural steel sections are currently recovered, with 86% sent for recycling – typically electric arc furnace (EAF) recycling – and 13% for reuse. Pathways to reuse Expedition’s report identifies three key pathways for implementation: Steel Reuse in Bridges - pathways to reuse While regulatory constraints, procurement challenges and risk management concerns have historically limited steel reuse adoption, the research is designed to address these issues, providing guidance on material qualification, certification and design life considerations for repurposed steel in bridges. Key priorities to ensure greater uptake of reused steel in project include “rigorous material testing to confirm the geometry, condition, and structural integrity of reused steel”, the study states. Fatigue life “A crucial factor in bridge applications is assessing fatigue life to determine long-term viability,” according to the report. “Certification and compliance processes are expected to evolve, shifting toward a testing-based approach rather than reliance on CE or UK marking for individual components.” Previous and future fatigue life is another consideration. “Fatigue can significantly impact the design life of a structure,” the report says. “Current guidance is restrictive about reused steel from and for bridges subject to fatigue. However, with the right level of assessment, inspection and engineering judgement, some reuse is possible.” The report includes several case studies demonstrating that footbridges emerge as a viable typology for reclaimed steel, due to their lower fatigue sensitivity and the relative ease of implementation, as demonstrated by the Lucie Bréard footbridge in Paris. Case study: Lucie Bréard footbridge - Paris The Paris 2024 Olympic games focused on improving accessibility for all, necessitating the construction of a new footbridge - the Lucie Bréard footbridge - over the Canal Saint-Denis to replace a moveable bridge, whose rotating mechanism was prone to failure. Lucy Bréard Bridge, Paris - a case study by Schlaich Bergermann and Explorations Architecture - copyright Michel Denance The design team proposed reuse of the main span of the road bridge as the new pedestrian and cycle footbridge. The alignment would be altered and the level raised by 5.5m above water to allow for commercial navigation. The reused span is a 52m-long and 13m-wide orthotropic steel box girder. A visual inspection and non-destructive tests confirmed that the structure was in good condition and due to the limited in-use service life of only 20 years, the bridge was not near the end of its fatigue life. Parts of the foundations were also reused. New parts included the ramps and stairs, as well as the replacement of the deck edges that were corroded and not adequate to support the new balustrade. Other areas with signs of corrosion were repaired. A barge, jack-up system and self-propelled modular transporters (SPMTs) were used to install the 280t bridge in two days. The availability of the as-built drawings and justifications, the client’s support and ownership, and the tight programme contributed to the success of the project. The project client was Plaine Commune; the designers and structural engineer was Schlaich Bergermann Partner; the architect was Explorations Architecture; the steel contractor was Eiffage Métal, and the civils and general contractor was Razel-Bec. Conclusions Despite the barriers to uptake, Steel Reuse in Bridges indicates that the supply chain for reusable steel is expanding, with fabricators and stockholders such as Cleveland Steel & Tubes playing an increasing role. “The most successful reuse cases occur when clients own both the donor and recipient assets, streamlining logistical and commercial considerations,” said Expedition. The study points out: “While reused steel is generally more cost-effective than new steel, additional costs may arise from testing, reconditioning, and logistics - particularly when relocating entire bridge spans.” And it also emphasises the need for a resource-led, iterative approach to design and construction, requiring greater collaboration between designers, engineers, and contractors. The full report, Steel Reuse in Bridges, can be found here. NCE has reported separately that ASBP research indicates a critical gap lies in the underutilised role of demolition contractors. Demolition specialists could be better incentivised to recover steel from buildings, according to ASBP. Meanwhile, pioneering projects and the work of organisations like The Engineers Reuse Collective (tERC) are working towards accelerating reuse in the built environment. Like what you've read? To receive New Civil Engineer's daily and weekly newsletters click here.

Skanska Appointed To Replace Rail Bridge Over The M6 In £43M Contract

New Civil Engineer (Bridge)

Skanska Appointed To Replace Rail Bridge Over The M6 In £43M ContractNetwork Rail has confirmed the appointment of Skanska to oversee the replacement of Clifton Bridge in Penrith, under a £43M contract. The project involves the design, construction and installation of a new 130m single span steel bridge, which is expected to be completed in early 2026. Clifton Bridge, a vital structure on the West Coast Main Line that crosses the M6 motorway, has been in service for 71 years. However, due to significant deterioration, it has been restricted to only one train crossing at a time, resulting in delays for both passenger services and freight transport between the North of England and Scotland. Preparatory work for the £60M project began earlier this year, with the existing bridge set to be removed by the end of this year. The new bridge will be constructed nearby and moved into place during a scheduled 15-day blockade of the West Coast Main Line, commencing on 31 December 2025. This replacement scheme marks the first project Skanska has secured under Network Rail’s five-year North West and Central Framework for Control Period 7, which runs from April 2024 to March 2029. The planning has involved collaboration with various stakeholders, including National Highways, Westmorland & Furness Council, the Environment Agency, and the National Trust. Skanska operations director (rail) James Corker said: “Over recent months, we have worked closely with Network Rail to simplify and refine the design and construction methodology, ensuring that it meets budget and programme targets. “This is a complex project that will be delivered to tight timescales, and we are delighted to have been appointed. It draws on our expertise delivering similar schemes, with close support from our supply chain team. “We have found ways to reduce cost, time and carbon, including through value engineering to minimise works required in reusing existing bridge support structures, such as abutments and piers. It’s been a really collaborative process and we are now very much looking forward to beginning main construction.” Significant disruptions to both road and rail services are anticipated during the work. Traffic management measures on the M6 will be in place until the project’s conclusion in 2026, including lane closures which will extend approximately 5 km south of Junction 40, with restrictions reaching lane one on the Northbound side of the motorway. Additionally, the railway line will undergo closures for two weekends in January 2026 to facilitate the removal and installation of the new bridge. These closures are scheduled from the evening of 2 January to the morning of 5 January, and again from 9 January to 12 January. During this time, the M6 will also be shut in both directions between junctions 39 and 40, further impacting traffic in the area. Like what you've read? To receive New Civil Engineer's daily and weekly newsletters click here.

Norfolk’S Roads To Get Miles Of Improvements To Prevent Potholes

Norfolk’S Roads To Get Miles Of Improvements To Prevent PotholesNorfolk County Council’s annual spring and summer road surface dressing programme started this week and will see Norfolk’s roads get a new seal to help prevent potholes forming and extending the life of roads with a new skid-resistant surface to reduce the risk of accidents. The work continues through until September, to take advantage of the warmer weather. This year 320 miles of Norfolk roads will be dressed, up from 280 miles last year thanks to extra funding received from the Department for Transport for highways maintenance this year The programme will target high tourism areas and main roads first, so they are complete before the start of the busy summer season. The total programme will cost around £12 million and is a proven pro-active approach to highways maintenance. Grahame Bygrave, Director of Highways, Transport & Waste said; “The way that we invest in and maintain the roads across the county is what sees us come out on top for the past two years in the National Highways and Transportation survey for overall customer satisfaction. It’s fantastic to be able to expand the miles of road which will be given a new lease of life this year, benefitting from our proactive highway maintenance approach which is proven to help prevent potholes forming and offers the best value to residents. Maintaining our roads is key to enabling the Norfolk economy to both function and grow, as our highways are vital to every resident, business and visitor to Norfolk.” Last year, Norfolk was the top performing county council in the country when it came to road repairs. According to Department of Transport statistics, Norfolk County Council fixed 92 percent of repairs reported during 2023/24, and in the same year Norfolk County Council achieved first place overall in the National Highways and Transportation customer satisfaction survey. Surface dressing uses a waterproofing seal which consists of a thin layer of bitumen and stone chippings which is laid onto the road. This helps prevent water penetration and reduces the number of potholes forming when it freezes. People living along the routes which are due to be treated will receive notification a day or two before the crews arrive. They will be asked not to park on the road on the day of the surface dressing work, or on the following day when surplus chippings will be swept up. People are urged to drive slowly and considerately across the new surface until it is bedded in, and Highway Teams return to sweep up the loose chippings. This is because the passage of vehicles over the new surface plays an important part in helping the new surface to settle in. (Pic: Mapillary)

Rees Jeffreys Road Fund Transport Msc Bursary Scheme To Continue

Rees Jeffreys Road Fund Transport Msc Bursary Scheme To ContinueRees Jeffreys Road Fund will once again be running the Transport MSc Bursary programme for 2025-26. Funding is available for course fees for both full and part time students. All applications for funding are to be made through one of the 14 universities participating in the scheme, rather than students contacting Rees Jeffreys Road Fund. The deadline for applications is 10am on Friday 27 June 2025. Potential applicants are encouraged to contact universities now to discuss their plans to study for an MSc. More information is available at Bursaries – Rees Jeffreys Road Fund.

Washington Officials Increase I-5 Bridge Budgeting Plan

Roads & Bridges

Washington Officials Increase I-5 Bridge Budgeting PlanWashington lawmakers have advanced legislation to boost funding for a new Interstate 5 bridge over the Columbia River, increasing the amount of toll-backed borrowing to help cover rising construction costs. The House Transportation Committee approved an amended version of House Bill 1958, authorizing the sale of $2.5 billion in general obligation bonds, over $900 million more than originally proposed. The measure now heads to the Rules Committee for a possible floor vote. Backers say the increased bonding authority is necessary to ensure the long-delayed project stays on schedule. Others speculate that inflationary costs might also be driving the decisions. “We think we have enough, but we want to make sure,” said Rep. Jake Fey, the bill’s sponsor, in a statement. Construction permits are expected by 2026, with work continuing through 2032. The replacement bridge is estimated to cost between $5 billion and $7.5 billion, with a midpoint estimate of $6 billion. Washington and Oregon have each pledged about $1 billion and secured $2.1 billion in federal grants. Because Washington will administer the tolling program, it must issue the bonds. The debt will be repaid through tolls, gas taxes and vehicle fees, though the state’s general fund could be used as a backup. Tolls are projected to generate at least $1.2 billion and could begin on the current bridge in both directions as early as spring 2026. Source: Washingtonstatestandard.com., OPB.org

£125M Plan Agreed To Improve West Yorkshire’S Roads

New Civil Engineer (Road)

£125M Plan Agreed To Improve West Yorkshire’S RoadsApproximately 450 miles of road – 8% of the road network in West Yorkshire – will be repaired and protected, alongside wider highways works, under a new plan to invest £125M over the next two years. The new plan and its associated funding was approved by regional leaders at a full West Yorkshire Combined Authority meeting, as part of the final two years of the City Regional Sustainable Transport Settlement (CRSTS) scheme. Projects will cover all West Yorkshire’s districts, with each partner council having their own allocation. The largest part of this funding, totalling £105.2M, will go towards asset management including resurfacing and repairing roads, maintaining structures such as bridges, improving drains and renewing streetlights and signs across the region. This includes £14.8M from the Local Highways Maintenance Fund announced by government back in December 2024. Meanwhile £8.3M has been earmarked for the Safe Roads programme, which includes new traffic calming measures and improvements to junctions. A further £10M will go towards network management such as enhancing traffic lights and new pedestrian crossings, while a smaller sum will be used to help develop active travel schemes. Mayor of West Yorkshire, Tracy Brabin, said: “We know that poor roads in West Yorkshire are a big issue for motorists, causing damage and creating unsafe driving conditions. This funding will be a huge boost to help fix more potholes, repair more roads and improve safety. Ensuring all our roads are safe and well maintained is important for building a better-connected region.” From April to December last year, the combined authority oversaw the delivery of more than 64 miles of road renewal and almost 135 miles of preventative treatment such as surface dressing, a method of extending a road’s lifespan. Works also repaired nearly 245,000m² of potholes. The road network in West Yorkshire is over 5,500 miles long. Like what you've read? To receive New Civil Engineer's daily and weekly newsletters click here.

Beaming Up In Latest Phase Of £23M Motorway Bridge Replacement Works

Beaming Up In Latest Phase Of £23M Motorway Bridge Replacement WorksEight steel beams have been lifted into place as part of a £23m scheme to replace a National Highways bridge in Greater Manchester. The beams, each pair weighing up to 65 tonnes, were installed as part of the latest phase of work to replace St Anne’s Road Bridge in Denton, which crosses the M67. The image captures the impressive moment a pair of braced steel beams were meticulously craned perfectly into position in the bright weekend sunshine. National Highways Programme Delivery Manager Mangat Bansal said: “The work went very well and according to plan with each pair of beams lifted successfully and safely into place. We had to close the motorway to enable this latest phase in our project and thank everyone for their understanding and patience as we continue with our work to rebuild the bridge.” The beams will support the new bridge deck, on which vehicles will run. The works were the final planned full weekend closure of the M67 for the project with the next phase involving the building of the bridge deck itself. (Pic: National Highways)