Buffalo, NY — R.J. Watson, Inc. is proud to play a pivotal role in the ongoing rehabilitation and seismic retrofit of the iconic North Grand Island Bridges, a vital link in Western New York’s transportation network. This landmark project, commissioned by the New York State Thruway Authority and led by Piasecki Steel Construction, marks a significant investment in the region’s infrastructure resiliency and safety.
The $67.7 million project, which began in April 2023 and is scheduled for completion in Summer 2026, involves comprehensive structural steel repairs and a state-of-the-art seismic retrofit. As part of this transformative effort, R.J. Watson, Inc. is fabricating and supplying 56 custom-engineered EQS seismic isolation bearings and 8 high-load multirotational disc bearings.
Advancing Bridge Safety with Seismic Innovation
While seismic design is often associated with areas like California, Western New York—including Buffalo and the Niagara region—faces its own seismic risks. Though infrequent, seismic events in the region have the potential to cause significant damage to aging infrastructure. The North Grand Island Bridges, with their northbound span dating back to 1935 and the southbound span to 1964, are among the region’s most critical crossings, carrying Interstate 190 traffic across the Niagara River.
“Investing in seismic isolation technology for these structures ensures they remain safe and functional for decades to come,” said the team at R.J. Watson, Inc. “By supplying advanced seismic bearings, we are helping to preserve both the bridges’ structural integrity and their legacy.”
The Bearings Behind the Bridges
R.J. Watson’s EQS seismic isolation bearings are designed to support vertical loads ranging from 1,124 kips (4,999 kN) to 3,066 kips (13,638 kN), while managing horizontal loads up to 12% of the vertical forces. These bearings allow for precise rotational movement and thermal displacement, as well as critical seismic displacement capacity of up to 3 inches longitudinally and transversely.
Additionally, the bearings feature an innovative fused restraint system. This design restricts movement in one or both directions until a specified seismic load is reached. At that point, the restraint breaks away, allowing the bearing to slide freely and absorb seismic energy, thereby protecting the bridge structure from potential damage.
Complementing the EQS bearings are R.J. Watson’s guided expansion disc bearings, capable of supporting vertical loads of 333 kips (1,481 kN) with rotational flexibility and thermal displacement capacity tailored to the needs of the project.
A Legacy of Innovation and Quality
The seismic retrofit of the North Grand Island Bridges highlights R.J. Watson, Inc.’s commitment to delivering innovative and reliable solutions for critical infrastructure. Our collaboration with Piasecki Steel Construction and CHA Companies demonstrates the power of partnership in advancing bridge engineering and safety.
As these historic bridges undergo their transformation, we are proud to contribute to their continued service as vital connectors in Western New York—and to the safety and confidence of the traveling public.
