New I-35W bridge has 'smart bridge' technology - By STEVE KARNOWSKI, AP
The purpose of the 'smart bridge' technology isn't to warn of another impending disaster, it's to detect small problems before they become big ones, said Alan Phipps, design manager for the project with Figg Engineering Group Inc. of Tallahassee, Fla.
'What these sensors are for, it's like going to your doctor for your health checkup,' Phipps said. 'It's to ensure you're maintained in top shape so you never get close to having a serious problem.'
The new bridge is due to open at 5 a.m., when crews remove the barricades that have stood since the old bridge collapsed Aug. 1, 2007, killing 13 people and injuring 145.