A civil engineer is tasked with designing a bridge over a river in a region prone to seismic activity. The bridge must withstand both seismic forces and the weight of heavy traffic. Which of the following considerations would be most crucial in the design process?

A$)$ Selecting the most cost$-$effective materials for construction.

B$)$ Analyzing the geological conditions of the riverbed and surrounding terrain.

C$)$ Incorporating aesthetically pleasing features to enhance the bridge's appearance.

D$)$ Minimizing the environmental impact of construction activities.

E$)$ Determining the optimal traffic flow patterns to reduce congestion.