Bay Bridge

Questions raised on Bay Bridge structural tests

By Charles Piller - Updated: Thursday, June 14 2012 - 6:48 pm

A Bee investigation has found that the state Department of Transportation technician who conducted key testing to ensure structural integrity of the new San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge eastern span's foundation was later disciplined for fabricating test results on other projects.

• Read the initial Bee investigation here. Additional articles and follow-ups are listed below.

Corrosion plagues new Bay Bridge span

By Charles Piller - Updated: 8:32 am

Experts say that while a total collapse seems unlikely, if Caltrans miscalculated corrosion estimates a major quake could cripple sections of the San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge.

Investigation improves safeguards for bridges, roads

By Charles Piller - Updated: 8:14 am

The Bee's ongoing investigation into California Department of Transportation testing and construction has prompted changes in how state government safeguards bridges and roadways.

Did Caltrans misinform its corrosion reviewer?

Updated: 8:32 am

Caltrans hired a single independent corrosion expert, professor Alberto Sagues of the University of South Florida, to review the adequacy of the agency's study of skyway tendons. A Bee comparison of that study against the construction record shows that Caltrans did not give Sagues a complete and accurate accounting. Other corrosion experts said the discrepancies cast doubt on Sagues' conclusions.

Bay Bridge inspection records

Updated: 8:32 am

Three samples from inspector's diaries.

How the investigation unfolded - 8:17 am
New span has troubled history - 8:17 am
Experts consulted by The Sacramento Bee for this report - 8:32 am
Senate panel questions Caltrans about Bay Bridge broken bolts, broken trust - May 15
Amid bolt problems, new Bay Bridge span's opening date still unclear - May 9
Independent review urged for Bay Bridge fixes - May 8
Bay Bridge tower welds flawed, need repairs - May 3

Deeply Buried Doubts: Questions below the new Bay Bridge

Sacramento Bee investigative reporter Charles Piller talks about his series that raised questions about the structural integrity of the new San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge.

Video by Manny Crisostomo.