Transportation

Drones are revolutionizing the way bridge inspections are conducted, offering a safer, faster, and more cost-effective alternative to traditional methods. At Schemmer, we utilize drone technology to enhance inspections, reaching areas that would otherwise be inaccessible and minimizing risk for our engineers.

A prime example of this innovation was our inspection of the LIED Trail Bridge over the Platte River after the devastating 2019 floods in Nebraska. With dangerous currents and massive debris blocking access, our drone provided critical visuals of the girder bearings, enabling a thorough condition assessment and expediting repair designs all without putting our team in harm’s way.

As the industry evolves, the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) took steps to incorporate drones into national bridge inspection standards in a limited capacity. That step paved the way for safer and more efficient inspections nationwide. If you’re looking for a cutting-edge approach to bridge inspection that enhances safety and streamlines the process, contact Darin Brown, PE, Schemmer’s Bridge Manager, to learn more about how drone technology can work for your project.