Modeling post‐earthquake functional recovery of bridges

Rapid restoration of transportation systems following earthquake disruptions is essential due to its significant impact on commutes, freight transport, and emergency medical response. This study develops a framework to model bridge post‐earthquake functional recovery, which is a critical step in assessing the seismic resilience of transportation networks. A simulation‐based strategy is used, which is initiated by component‐level damage assessment. This is followed by three major modules that include functional state evaluation, impeding factor definition and duration, and repair or replacement duration. The functional state module determines the bridge closure decisions (e.g. partial or complete lane closure, weight restriction) immediately after the earthquake and during the reopening phase. The duration estimates include the time delays before the initiation of repairs (in the impeding factor module) and the time needed to perform any necessary repairs or to replace the bridge (in the repair or replacement duration module). Worker allocation schemes and repair sequencing are explicitly considered to realistically reflect local construction practices. The framework architecture and duration‐based input parameters were informed by a series of interviews with California bridge engineers and builders. Nonetheless, the overall methodology is flexible and can be easily adapted to other jurisdictions.