Bridge abutments support the bridge span at either end and link it to the trail surface. The unit cost provided is for 2 abutments, or 1 bridge. Abutment design can vary widely based upon topography, geology, and environmental constraints (wetlands in particular). Therefore little information on cost of abutments is transferable from one setting to another. The user is encouraged to input their own abutment cost based on local conditions if available.
How the Default Unit Cost was Determined
The Wisconsin DOT provided a bridge abutment cost of $9,500 each with the caveat that this cost is highly variable
