Civil engineering has historically played a pivotal role in the development of societies, occupying a strategic position in terms of structural safety, infrastructure continuity, and the sustainability of living spaces. Today, this discipline requires a multidimensional approach that extends beyond engineering calculations, necessitating the comprehensive evaluation of environmental, economic, and social parameters.

This book, titled "Contemporary Approaches and Assessments in the Field of Civil Engineering", aims to bring together recent developments, scientific research findings, and practical applications in the contexts of structural, transportation, and geotechnical engineering. It aspires to serve as a reliable reference for researchers, academics, practicing engineers, and graduate students.

Within the scope of the book, the structural and construction materials section includes evaluations on castellated beams and their areas of application, cold-formed steel structures and their comparison with other structural systems, as well as the use of lightweight aggregates in the production of lightweight concrete. In the field of transportation, chapters are devoted to smart cities with intelligent transportation systems and the use of culvert systems in transportation infrastructure. In the geotechnical section, retaining systems in deep excavations are discussed, accompanied by a case study.

I hope that this book will make a valuable contribution to both the civil engineering literature and professional practice. I would like to extend my sincere thanks to Özgür Publishing for providing the opportunity to present this work to its readers.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Evren SEYREK

Editor