CHA Consulting, Inc. (CHA) proudly announces that its groundbreaking use of ultra-high performance concrete (UPHC) in the rehabilitation of the Dexter Coffin Bridge received a Merit Award at the 2026 ACEC Connecticut Engineering Excellence Awards. This recognition celebrates the firm’s first-in-state application of UHPC to strengthen critical infrastructure in Connecticut.
The Dexter Coffin Bridge is a 12-span steel structure that carries eight lanes of I-91 traffic over the Connecticut River, Amtrak, Route 159, and South Water Street. Originally constructed in 1956 and widened in 1991, the bridge exhibited structural challenges, including advanced pack rust between bottom flange plates, flange local buckling, and insufficient rating capacity. The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) engaged CHA as the prime consultant to lead the structural assessment, design development, and implementation of specialized rehabilitation techniques.
CHA’s comprehensive scope included concrete deck and substructure repairs, steel strengthening, replacement of expansion bearings and bridge joints, and upgrading lighting and overhead sign structures. A key element of the design was the first application of UHPC in Connecticut for steel beam repair and strengthening. The material’s superior durability provides long-term protection against corrosion, significantly extending the bridge’s service life. The successful rehabilitation of the Dexter Coffin Bridge stands as a model for how UHPC can be effectively deployed to strengthen aging steel structures while maintaining live traffic.
Congratulations to the entire project team for their dedication, technical excellence, and successful delivery of a complex rehabilitation that will benefit Connecticut’s commuters, communities, and economy for decades to come. CHA accepted the award at the ACEC-CT Engineering Excellence Awards Dinner held on January 27, 2026.
The American Council of Engineering Companies of Connecticut (ACEC?CT) advocates for consulting engineering firms across the state and represents more than 70 member companies. As part of the national ACEC federation, the organization supports over 55,000 members through professional development, advocacy, and recognition programs, including the annual Engineering Excellence Awards. Learn more at ACEC-CT's official website.