Key issues
	Much previous research work has been carried out within the above mentioned areas. There is, however, a need for integration, innovative development and testing in order to establish efficient procedures for management and safe upgrading of railway bridges. This will be achieved within the frames of this project through the extensive experience owned by the many qualified participants and through an efficient project structure.   Initially a mapping of the features of the European existing bridge types will be carried out as a basis for the project activities. Additionally the present and future loads and load distributions will be investigated. The continued work will be grouped into the following main activities     Condition assessment and inspection methods will be developed based on new research results using probabilistic methods Capacity and resistance of structures and foundations will be studied and new methods will be developed including impulse radar and ultrasonic echo methods Monitoring methods will be developed based on new technologies including fibre optic sensors Repair and strengthening will be developed using e.g. carbon fibres reinforced polymers (CFRP) Tests and demonstrations of the new methods will be carried out on l existing and new bridges Training activities will be carried out to disseminate the results to bridge owners, consultants and contractors.