1997-98 Annual Report: Tech 21 Excerpt

 

Click for complete 1997-98 Annual Report

Tech 21 Smith Road Bridge #03.730 (Hamilton City/Ross & St. Clair Twps)

 

An aging and deteriorated Smith Road Bridge #03.730 was replaced with Ohio's first all-composite bridge; only the third in the nation. The new Tech 21 Bridge, which has received national and international attention, is the culmination of technology transfer efforts and is built entirely of advanced composite material originally designed for use in the aerospace industry -- fibers such as glass embedded in epoxy. The bridge's projected life expectancy of 100 years (over twice that of conventional concrete and steel bridges) combined with its low cost construction is an attractive alternative for many public agencies and engineering firms worldwide. As the technology develops, it could save taxpayers millions of dollars in repair and replacement costs.

(Photo 1. Photo 2. Photo 3. Photo 4. Photo 5. Photo 6. Photo 7. Photo 8.)

 

Butler County's Tech 21 Bridge has received worldwide coverage, from numerous articles in engineering trade publications to CNN's "Future Watch" program. (Additional CNN image.)

Ohio Governor George V. Voinovich and Ohio Senator Mike DeWine each issued proclamations heralding the event as a positive contribution to Ohio's rich transportation history and as good for the economy.

Governor Voinovich's proclamation

Senator DeWine's proclamation

 

• Back to Tech 21 photo gallery.
• Back to main Tech 21 page.