Sidewalk Loading

[AUCE98]

I would like some opinions regarding the application of live load for a portion of a structure that I am currently designing. The structure is an enclosed stair tower extending from a lower parking lot level on grade up to street level adjacent to a viaduct. The building is located approximately 12-feet from the face of the bridge. This 12-foot distance is spanned by a cantilever from the building. The portion out in front of the building could be considered a portion of the sidewalk. At the face of the bridge/sidewalk interface, bollards are to be installed to prevent vehicles driving into the front of the building.

My question is this, IBC 2006 requires “sidewalks, vehicular driveways, and yards subject to trucking” to provide a uniform live load of 250 psf. Since the cantilever sidewalk will have bollards and attempt to prevent traffic from driving/parking on it, would it still fall into this category. The alternative would be to use a 100 psf uniform live load for pedestrian traffic.

Thanks in advance,

AUCE98

 

[MiketheEngineer]

I would think a 100 psf would be fine. IF somebody tries to drive a vehicle across it - they deserve what they get...

Call your local building dept - they have to buy into the design regardless.

 

[JAE]

I think MiketheEngineer's view is fine. But I always tend to view bollards as more of a psychological barrier rather than a real barrier.

The 250 psf live load was originated by the fact that buildings had sidewalks next to them with extended basements below. This then created a situation where cars, delivery trucks, or (more serious) heavy firetruck wheel and outrigger loading would be applied.

If the bollards are serious barriers to vehicular access (a DOT-like barrier) then perhaps the 100 is justified. If they are 6" pipes bolted to the concrete with grout infill, I'd go with 250 psf.

 

[kslee1000]

I agree with JAE.
I designed a walkway for METRA station, and was advised to use 250 psf due to concerns of public gathering and safety.

 

[msquared48]

"I would think a 100 psf would be fine. IF somebody tries to drive a vehicle across it - they deserve what they get..."

Unfortunately, so would the indecent... uh, check that... the innocent below.

Mike McCann
MMC Engineering