Terrestrial Laser Scanning (TLS) Survey and Building Information Modeling (BIM) of The Edmund Pettus Bridge: A Case Study

Abstract

The comprehensive digital documentation of the Edmund Pettus Bridge, a symbol of the American Civil Rights Movement located in Selma, Alabama, serves as an example of integrating Terrestrial Laser Scanning (TLS) and Building Information Modeling (BIM) technologies for the conservation of heritage infrastructure. This study aimed to employ advanced TLS and other Reality Capture (RC) techniques to generate a high-resolution, three-dimensional representation of the bridge, thereby aiding in its structural assessment and preservation. Utilizing TLS alongside 360-degree photography and UAV surveys, the project achieved detailed coverage of the bridge's architectural and structural features. The data collected was processed into a BIM model using Autodesk Revit, offering comprehensive analysis and preservation planning. The findings from this research highlighted previously undetected areas of material degradation and structural vulnerabilities, emphasizing the value of TLS and BIM in revealing critical insights into the condition of heritage structures. This project preserved the digital memory of an iconic Civil Rights landmark and set a framework for applying digital documentation technologies in heritage infrastructure conservation. The success of this methodology offers a valuable precedent for future conservation efforts, showcasing how RC technologies can enhance the preservation of historical sites and ensure their legacy is maintained for future generations.