Abstract: A fiber grating strain sensor package that is optimized for axial strain sensitivity and usage on a civil structure that may be a bridge or building is described in this invention. Transverse strain effects are minimized and axial strain sensitivity is enhanced through the design of a substrate with an optimized geometry. These sensors have been deployed and tested on a bridge demonstrating very high sensitivity and the ability of this design to be packaged in an environmentally rugged housing necessary for a commercially successful product.