DRAINAGE DESIGN CASE STUDY:

As part of a drainage infrastructure improvement in St. Lucie County, Florida, the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) oversaw the installation of JET Filter maintainable weep holes at the Keen Road Bridge over Taylor Creek Canal. The project was designed to improve water discharge, reduce hydrostatic pressure, and enhance the long-term performance of reinforced steel barriers supporting the bridge structure

Like many bridges situated above water channels, the Keen Road Bridge faced ongoing challenges from hydrostatic pressure and soil saturation. These issues can weaken retaining structures and lead to erosion behind the barrier walls if not properly addressed.

FDOT and its engineering team at Inwood Consulting Engineers recognized the need for a durable, inspectable drainage solution that could manage long-term water pressure without compromising the integrity of the structure.

Brothers’ Construction, Inc. was contracted to install 41 JF4SS maintainable weep hole drains by JET Filter System. These systems were integrated through newly proposed reinforced steel barriers along the bridge structure, improving drainage efficiency and allowing for long-term access and maintenance.

✅ 41 units of 4” diameter open-end ASTM 316/316L Stainless Steel Housing

✅ Mirafi® Filter-Weave FW 300 Geotextile Filter Media

✅ Strategically installed through steel barriers at designated intervals

The maintainable system relieves trapped hydrostatic pressure, prevents sediment movement, and extends the service life of the bridge’s structural components.

Bridges that span canals or rivers—especially in Florida’s high-moisture environment—require reliable drainage systems to avoid:

• Water pressure buildup behind abutments or walls

• Soil erosion from water migration

• Structural degradation over time

• Higher long-term maintenance costs

JET Filter’s maintainable weep holes provide access for inspection and flushing, ensuring the drainage system continues to operate efficiently throughout the structure’s service life.