What features would you design as a part of a bridge to make it better able to withstand an earthquake?

Answer 1

Make the deck flexible and able to move 2-3" on the piers.

Answer 2

There are two considerations: 1. Tranverse motion of an eartquake (up, down) 2. Longitudinal motion of an earthquake (side-side). For one, you want the support to move up and down without moving the bridge--damped springs would be a thought. For two, putting the pillars on supports with ball bearings--allows the supports to move side-side underneath the stationary bridge.

Answer 3

Remove the bridge and make a jump.
Just kidding...
Slip joints, cable suspension, and floating pilars.