The perfect pedestrian bridge is not only safe and durable, but also pleasing to the eye. You don’t want to see corrosion or fading colors that make it an eyesore, and obviously you don’t want rust and rot that can make it unsafe. That’s why ReadySpan pedestrian, equestrian and light vehicle bridges are made with Bedford fiberglass-reinforced polymer (FRP). The material ensures both lasting performance and lasting beauty.
Built for Strength
To provide years of safe passage, pedestrian bridge construction has to take several elements into consideration. Along with handling the weight of pedestrians and cyclists, the bridge also has to be strong enough to hold up against wind, rain, snow, sleet and, in some areas, saltwater. To ensure superior strength and durability, the FRP components in ReadySpan bridges are precision fabricated on CNC machines using Bedford’s pultrusion process.
During this pre-engineering process, all parts are made to exact specifications so that they’re easy to assemble at the project site. Any shape can be created through pultrusion, and ReadySpan beams, truss structures, railings and more are specifically crafted in Bedford’s factory for bridge construction. Even more, the process helps make certain that each ReadySpan footbridge design and construction will meet the load conditions of the application so the bridge can be installed and used worry-free.
In the video below, ReadySpan Sales Account Manager Ted Harris gives you a behind-the-scenes look at how ReadySpan bridges are made and packaged for easy shipping and assembly.
Built to Last
Because of the strength created during the pultrusion process, pedestrian bridges built with ReadySpan trail bridge construction components can cover lengths up to 100′ without the need for intermediary supports. Your ReadySpan pedestrian bridge will have a modern, streamlined look while providing all the structural support needed for your application.
Unlike metal and wood bridges, the strength of a ReadySpan pedestrian bridge isn’t fleeting. FRP materials don’t rust, warp, corrode or attract insects, so they hold up significantly longer than metal and wood bridges. In fact, ReadySpan pedestrian bridges can be expected to last 75 years even in the harshest conditions.
Built for Beauty
Whether you need a trail bridge for a park, a footbridge over a creek on a golf course, or a bridge to handle heavy foot traffic in a cityscape, you want it to look its best. Over time, a wooden bridge will fade, crack and flake, and a metal bridge will get stained from rust and its paint will fade and chip. But across decades, a ReadySpan FRP pedestrian bridge will maintain its attractive appearance.
All materials are available in brown and olive green for a look that blends in anywhere. The color is integrated into the components rather than brushed on, so it doesn’t fade and can’t peel off. FRP is also virtually maintenance free, so you won’t have to spend time repainting, scrubbing off rust, or spraying for insects. You’ll simply enjoy your beautiful ReadySpan pedestrian bridge for decades to come.
ReadySpan FAQs
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions to help ensure you install your ReadySpan pedestrian, equestrian or light vehicle bridge with confidence.
How long does a ReadySpan pedestrian bridge last?
We’re not entirely sure since we’ve never had one fail! However, based on testing and the use of FRP materials worldwide, it’s estimated that the FRP materials in a ReadySpan bridge will last approximately 75 years.
What type of decking is used in ReadySpan pedestrian bridge construction?
You have choices for the decking material. 3" x 12" pressure-treated southern yellow pine decking comes standard. You can also upgrade to ADA-compliant HD fiberglass decking for a bridge floor that will last for decades.
What is the standard size for footbridge design and construction?
Among the many advantages of a ReadySpan bridge is the versatility to meet your exact needs. The dimensions of ReadySpan P-Series bridges for pedestrian traffic can be adjusted to make sure your bridge has a design load rating of 85 pounds per square foot uniform live load, which is required for maximum safety. Lengths range from 10′ to 90′, with widths varying from 3′ to 6′. Experienced ReadySpan engineers will work with you to make sure you have just the right size for your application.
Here to Help
Our knowledgeable team has helped customers worldwide with pedestrian, equestrian and light vehicle bridges, so don’t hesitate to reach out with any ReadySpan questions, request a quote, or call 814-623-8125 to discuss your project.