Chicago Bridge Inspection Team (CBIT) – Cook County, Illinois

The Chicago Bridge Inspection Team (CBIT) provides critical bridge inspection services across the city of Chicago, assessing the condition, safety, and reliability of more than 400 structures in the Chicago Department of Transportation (CDOT) inventory. As part of the CBIT team, DB Sterlin performs inspections on 60 to 80 bridges annually, ensuring compliance with Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) National Bridge Inspection Standards (NBIS), AASHTO, IDOT, and CDOT requirements. These inspections support safe operations, informed maintenance, and long-term planning for Chicago’s bridge infrastructure.

The CBIT program is a joint venture led by Benesch Program Manager Mark Bendok, PE, SE, with DB Sterlin providing NBIS-qualified engineers and structural engineers to conduct thorough, hands-on inspections. By adhering to stringent federal and state guidelines, the team ensures that each bridge is evaluated consistently and accurately, with findings documented in detailed inspection reports.

Comprehensive Inspection and Evaluation
DB Sterlin delivers a full spectrum of inspection services, including Routine NBIS, Element Level, Fracture Critical, and Special Inspections, tailored to the unique needs of each bridge. Following each inspection, formal reports are prepared that document bridge condition, provide structural ratings, and include IDOT inspection forms for state database submission. In addition, load ratings are performed per IDOT standards using AASHTOWare BrR software, helping CDOT assess the capacity of bridges to safely carry current and future traffic demands.

The CBIT team also performs on-call investigations, assists in coordinating with multiple agencies, and provides comprehensive final reports to guide capital maintenance planning and funding priorities. This integrated approach ensures that CDOT can make informed, data-driven decisions to maintain and improve the city’s bridge network.

Supporting Chicago’s infrastructure
Through rigorous inspections, detailed reporting, and expert analysis, CBIT helps maintain the structural integrity and safety of Chicago’s bridges for residents, commuters, and commercial traffic alike. By providing actionable insights and prioritizing maintenance needs, the program ensures that the city’s bridge infrastructure remains reliable, resilient, and prepared to meet the demands of a growing urban environment.