How Safe Are Our Bridges? Caltrans Whistleblower Exposes Faulty Bridge Test Results
A new investigation of several Southland bridges has revealed disturbing information that makes bridges even scarier. If not already plagued with gephyrophobia - a fear of crossing bridges - you may be after learning of Caltrans' recent discoveries.
An inside Caltrans source revealed that concrete tests on bridges across the state were fabricated or measured with inadequate tools, reports CBS LA. Duane Wiles, the 58-year-old Caltrans technician responsible for the bogus tests, has been disciplined for his actions.
Some of the Southland bridges in question are the 405 Freeway bridge over Braddock Drive in West L.A., a carpool ramp on the 60 and 57 freeways in Diamond Bar and the La Sierra Road overpass in Riverside. Officials say the Braddock Drive bridge is still considered safe, as is the La Sierra Road overpass. Though the tests results for the La Sierra Road bridge were falsified three years ago, the overpass was later accurately tested and deemed safe. The Diamond Bar ramp was tested with faulty equipment.
Wiles has been placed on administrative leave, relieving him of his current $6.3 billion project - the new San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge.
Adding to his incriminating record, Wiles was charged with a felony of contact with a minor for sexual offense last year. Child molestation and bridge safety distortion - that's quite a resume you're building, Wiles.
