Keeping America Moving
The indispensable role of steel dowels in concrete paving
The construction industry's relentless pursuit of innovation has given rise to alternative materials. While these alternatives represent commendable advancements, it's crucial to recognize the risks associated with adopting unproven transfer materials at pavement joints. These can include: 

  • Potential safety hazards: Materials that fail to provide adequate load transfer or deteriorate prematurely can lead to uneven surfaces, posing a risk to vehicle safety. 
  • Project delays: Implementing new materials may require additional testing and adjustments, potentially delaying project timelines. 
  • Reduced lifespan: Alternative materials lacking in durability may necessitate more frequent repairs or replacements, impacting the overall cost-effectiveness and sustainability of the pavement. 

Materials that fail to provide adequate load transfer or deteriorate prematurely can lead to deterioration at the joints which is the primary cause of pavement failure.
Asserting the dominance of steel dowels 
Steel dowels have consistently proven their worth in real-world applications. Their cost-effectiveness extends beyond initial investment to encompass lower lifecycle costs due to their exceptional durability and minimal maintenance requirements. The advancements in protective coatings and alloy compositions have further solidified steel dowels as the material of choice for ensuring pavement integrity. Key benefits of steel dowels include:


Cost-effectiveness
Steel dowels offer an exceptional balance of initial investment and long-term savings. Their durability reduces the need for frequent replacements or repairs, translating into lower lifecycle costs. Furthermore, their ease of installation minimizes labor expenses, making them a financially prudent choice for large-scale infrastructure projects.

Unmatched durability
Thanks to advancements in metallurgy, today's steel dowels are designed to withstand harsh environmental conditions, heavy traffic loads and the test of time. Their resistance to wear and tear surpasses that of many contemporary alternatives, ensuring that pavement joints remain stable and functional for decades.

Enhanced load transfer efficiency
Steel dowels excel in facilitating the smooth transfer of loads across concrete joints. This capability is crucial for preventing differential settlement and slab cracking, ultimately enhancing the pavement's load-bearing capacity and extending its service life.

Superior resistance to corrosion
Modern steel dowels are often treated with protective coatings or made from stainless steel variants, offering unparalleled resistance to corrosion. This is a significant advantage over some alternative materials that may degrade more rapidly when exposed to moisture or chemicals used in de-icing.

While the construction industry continues to explore new materials and technologies, steel dowels remain an irreplaceable component in concrete paving. Their cost-effectiveness, durability and superior performance make them a preferred choice for ensuring the longevity and reliability of pavement infrastructures. By choosing steel dowels, industry professionals can rest assured that they are investing in a proven solution that will stand the test of time.
Multi-year airport project takes off
Work is underway at the San Diego International Airport (SDIA) on a multi-year airport project. The project is designed to ensure accommodation for the anticipated future air travel demand by creating more modern, efficient and comfortable facilities. The primary elements of the approved project include:
  1. Replacement of Terminal 1 with a new terminal including up to 30 gates.
  2. Development of circulation and roadway improvements to enhance mobility to the existing and proposed terminals from North Harbor Drive including a new multi-use pedestrian and bicycle pathway and airport entry road for inbound vehicle traffic, as well as the preservation of right-of-way on airport property to accommodate potential off-airport access road improvements.
  3. Preservation of a portion of SDIA as a "transit-ready" area to accommodate future regional transit system improvements that would link to SDIA.
  4. Implementation of a dedicated shuttle service between the Old Town Transit Center and SDIA.
  5. Taxiway improvements and reconfigured remain overnight (RON) aircraft parking areas.
  6. Development of a five-story parking structure adjacent to the new Terminal 1.

Paving operations began in late 2023 and are expected to be completed in early 2026. We are excited to work alongside our partner Griffith Company and look forward to the project’s successful completion.
Spotlight on outstanding achievement
In late 2023, the Southwest Concrete Pavement Association (SWCPA) presented its Second Annual Outstanding Achievement Awards, recognizing eight distinctive projects ranging from California’s first “PLC Bridge” to the Contra Costa I-80 Paving Project. Over the next several months, we will spotlight these award winners who exemplify the innovative spirit of the concrete pavement industry.

Today we recognize the New West Mission Bay Drive Bridge Replacement Project. In addition to its stunning concrete appearance, the New West Mission Bay Bridge is the largest bridge replacement project in San Diego, California’s history. General contractor Flatiron West, Inc. constructed the $138-million bridge for the City of San Diego's Engineering & Public Works Department and Caltrans. 

Congratulations to Flatiron for its outstanding achievement! In next month’s newsletter, we will spotlight the next award winner for its extraordinary Air Force base taxiway project.
Calendar of Events
MAY
5 - 7
San Diego, CA
Groundbreaking Women in Construction Annual Conference
In its third decade, this event continues to foster knowledge, networking and invaluable connections, showing a strong commitment to industry diversity and inclusion—and proudly maintaining its position as the premier conference for women in construction. Register today!en in construction.
JUNE
4 - 6
Kansas City, MO

American Concrete Pavement Association mid-year meeting
Don’t miss out on ACPA’s mid-year meeting in Kansas City. The packed agenda will feature workshops, committee meetings, opportunities to connect with members and a special featured speaker, Chris Klieman, head football coach for Kansas State University. This is going to be a great event! Register today.
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