Upon evaluation, a system of 1960's vintage elevated roadways was found to be prone to major structural damage given seismic demands well below those specified in current AASHTO standards. Due to the system's importance, it was decided to explore retrofit measures capable of maintaining serviceability throughout an AASHTO design level event. In order to meet project objectives efficiently, roadway support piers were modified so that inelastic deformations would be concentrated in the circular column members, which could then be easily retrofit to achieve the necessary levels of ductility. Measures for engaging piers with isolation bearings were developed to help satisfy the project's serviceability requirements.

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