Bridge Construction

[Clayton Miller]

I've got a piece of property with a small river/large creek running across the front of it. I need to build a bridge over it in order to build a home but I do not know the cost. Do I go with a culvert or do we use concrete and I beams? Which is more expensive? Which is more durable? How do I know what rules to follow in order not to damn up the river? Does anyone know who I can call near Columbus, IN for help? What kind of company do I call? Thanks.

[Rob Harris]

A loooooooot of variables in play.  I have no experience in your state. Going in blind; I would contact the county building Dept or authority where you live and ask them who is responsible for the natural water resources in that area. (Food Control District??) Explain circumstances and they should be and to tell you to what degree you can or cannot alter the natural water movement and or collection in your area. 

Once you get some direction; contract a general "engineering" contractor in that area and explain the field situation and send him/her some pictures of what your field conditions are and explain what you are trying to accomplish. They would be best familiar with best practices and pricing in your area.  Also, I would think you are going to have to get some geotechnical information. Your local and state authorities mandate to what degree the use of licensed Structural and or Civil engineer would have to be utilized. Again, an experienced engineering contractor should be able to give you a good idea concerning your circumstances. 

I would think this should get you started, and I'm sorry I don't have any more finite info to share. I'm totally in the dark concerning this type of circumstance in your state.