 This paper studies an innovative strengthening system for dampened beams, which is applicable to half-joint regions of bridge beams. The system consists of two steel plates clamped onto the webs of the beam, which transfer shear from the web to the plates, reducing the resistance demand of the concrete half-joint. This reduces the need for heavy work on the bridge, minimizing disruption to traffic. The paper also considers the effect of the flange web connection on the structural behavior as well as the potential for brittle failure mechanisms. This article was authored by Gabrielle Bertinoli, Mario Ferrara, Luca Giordano, and others.