An efficient seismic retrofit for the Capodichino viaduct

Built environment in Europe has become dense with infrastructures and buildings packed in a restricted space. In many countries the laws explicitly promote the cities densification to avoid further urban sprawl. For many years the densification was debated without taking into account the need for a general seismic update of infrastructure and the protection of the cultural heritage. The Capodichino viaduct is a remarkable case of seismic retrofitting in a highly urbanized, seismic area. This paper presents the concept and the installation of new piers cap system that allowed retrofitting of the bridge without any modification of the piers and foundations capacity, while the structure was in use.