The George Washington Bridge spans the Hudson River between New York and Fort Lee, New Jersey. It has the distinction of being the only 14 lane suspension bridge in the world. In 1981, it celebrated its 50th Anniversary. After more than 19 years of successful service as an important link in the New York Metropolitan area, it was decided that the bituminous riding surface of the lower level should be replaced. This lower level had been opened in 1962. It was found that the asphalt course was no longer waterproof although the structure of the bridge was intact. There was to be some minor patching, followed by waterproof membrane system and a bituminous concrete wearing course. Of course, the bridge could not be closed and all 14 lanes had to be available for normal traffic each day of the week. The following were special requirements of the pavement system:
As a result of the good experience with natural asphalt blended wearing courses , a membrane mix was developed with the assistance of the Trinidad Lake Asphalt technical engineers in Europe. The material placed well with an excellent pavement texture. The paving of one lane of top course of approximately 1,400 linear metres required approximately eight (8) hours. It is expected that this pavement and the wearing surface will provide years of protection to the structural deck below whole affording commuters and other travellers in the busy corridor smooth and safe passage.
Taken from "The resurfacing of the George Washington Bridge and other heavily trafficked areas in New York- by Mr. Alfred Grimaldi
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