The Guide Manual for Bridge Element Inspection builds on the element-level condition assessment methods developed in the AASHTO Guide for Commonly Recognized Structural Elements, which it replaces. Improvements have been made to fully capture the condition of the elements by reconfiguring the element language to utilize multiple distress paths within the defined condition states. The multi-path distress language provides the means to fully incorporate all possible defects within the overall condition assessment of the element. The overall condition of an element can be utilized in this aggregate form, or broken down into specific defects present as desired by the agency for Bridge Management System (BMS) use. The Bridge Element Inspection Manual provides a comprehensive set of bridge elements that is designed to be flexible in nature to satisfy the needs of all agencies. The complete set of elements capture the components necessary for an agency to manage all aspects of the bridge inventory utilizing the full capability of a BMS -- Publisher's website.

This guide provides bridge related definitions and corresponding commentaries, as well as the framework for a systematic approach to a preventive maintenance program. The goal is to provide guidance on bridge preservation. This guide is intended for Federal, State, and local bridge engineers, area engineers, bridge owners, and bridge preservation practitioners.

In 2012, Congress passed the Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st Century Act (MAP-21) and committed to the development of a data-driven, risk based approach to asset management in the United States. This law requires the collection and submission of element level bridge inspection data for all National Highway System bridges, in addition to the National Bridge Inspection condition rating data. Ultimately, the data collected during element level bridge inspections should satisfy the requirements of the Federal Highway Administration and MAP-21 and be utilized by INDOT to evaluate bridge condition, predict deterioration, and guide decision making. The objective of this project is to develop recommendations for element level bridge inspection techniques, data collection, and inspector training based on a survey of INDOT peer agencies and a literature review of existing research and bridge inspection guidance. In order to collect consistent and reliable data, a rigorous inspector training program and detailed quality control procedures are necessary. INDOT must provide inspectors with the tools to be successful, including clearly defined expectations and instructions, comprehensive training and technical support, and effective inspection equipment. Similarly, robust quality control measures and periodic performance testing should be implemented to improve inspection quality and assess the agency's performance.

Aims to encourage transportation agencies to address strategic questions as they confront the task of managing the surface transportation system. Drawn form both national and international knowledge and experience, it provides guidance to State Department of Transportation (DOT) decision makers, as well as county and municipal transportation agencies, to assist them in realizing the most from financial resources now and into the future, preserving highway assets, and providing the service expected by customers. Divided into two parts, Part one focuses on leadership and goal and objective setintg, while Part two is more technically oriented. Appendices include work sheets and case studies.