ReadySpan Pedestrian Bridges

Solve your pedestrian, equestrian, golf course, and light vehicle bridge challenges quickly with ReadySpan pre-engineered bridge systems. They have the strength to meet the demands of load-carrying conditions, yet the lightweight material is easy to transport to out-of-the-way sites. And since it won’t rust, rot or be affected by weather conditions, your footbridge will last for decades.

FRP Durability
FRP Durability
Quick Ship
Quick Ship
Easy to Install
Easy to Install
Low Maintenance
Low Maintenance
ReadySpan

Incredible Durability

ReadySpan modular solutions are made of Bedford’s high-quality fiberglass-reinforced plastic (FRP), so — unlike bridges made from wood and metal — they won’t shrink, swell, warp, corrode, attract insects or fail in extreme weather conditions. Plus, the pedestrian bridges are virtually maintenance-free, saving you time year after year.

Quick Build, and Quick to Install

Installation is easy. ReadySpan bridge components are shipped predrilled with the necessary hardware, and no special tools or experience are needed. You can also get your pedestrian bridge shipped in modules that require limited assembly or completely pre-assembled to drop into your space.

Ready for Anything

The wide range of standard sizes, as well as upgrade possibilities, makes your pedestrian, equestrian, golf or ATV bridge design options almost unlimited.

Whether you need a park bridge to safely handle groups of people, a trail bridge for horse and bike use, or a fiberglass bridge to support golf carts and light vehicles, you’ll have the design you want and the strength you need. And since FRP is durable and virtually maintenance-free, you can count on long-term reliability and operational savings.

Applications

  • State parks
  • Hiking & biking trails
  • ATV & equestrian trails
  • Golf courses
  • New bridge installations
  • Replacement bridge installations

Specification Highlights

Complete specification details will be provided with your quote, but this information will give you an overview of the high quality you can expect from Bedford ReadySpan bridge systems.

FRP Composites
ReadySpan bridge systems are fabricated from high-strength E-glass and isophthalic polyester resin for strength and durability. Unless specified otherwise, the minimum thickness of FRP composite shapes shall be 0.25″. See complete FRP Pedestrian Bridge specifications.

Railings
All railings will be a minimum of 54″ above the floor deck.

Safety Rails
Trusses feature continuous 3″ horizontal safety rails on the inside.

Colors
Standard options include olive green and brown. Because Bedford integrates color during manufacturing, no painting is needed.

FAQ

Is FRP really a better choice than traditional wood, steel and aluminum?
Yes! Bedford FRP offers all the strength of traditional materials while providing advanced protection against harsh weather, rot, rust, corrosion and more. It’s also lighter, making it easier to ship and transport to the jobsite. Walking bridges are often installed in wooded areas, and ReadySpan bridge systems are far superior to traditional bridge materials not only for strength and longevity, but also for maintaining an attractive appearance that complements the landscape.

Read More arrow

How can I get an estimate for my bridge project?
We’re here to help. Simply use our online form, call us at 814-623-8125 or send an email. Please indicate what type of bridge you are interested in, e.g., trail or park bridge, equestrian bridge, ATV bridge, golf bridge or other.

How long does it take to build a bridge?
Because every project is different, the schedule is determined on a project-by-project basis. The estimate we put together for you will include scheduling information from order to delivery. In general, most of our bridges are built and shipped in 60 days or fewer.

Is the bridge shipped assembled?
Our bridge systems can be shipped fully assembled if the installation requires it. In most cases, customers choose to have the components shipped unassembled or partially assembled because it’s more cost effective. For bridges shipped fully assembled, a crane or other equipment will be needed for unloading.

Does Bedford install bridges?
No, although we will ship bridges fully assembled if needed. Also, ReadySpan bridge systems are designed for easy installation using standard tools. If you don’t want to hire a local contractor, contact us to learn how simple the process can be.

How heavy are the individual bridge components?
The elements that make up ReadySpan bridge systems are purposely lightweight so that they can be easily hand-carried to the jobsite when needed. The heaviest piece will likely be less than 125 pounds. Most are much less.

Does Bedford offer a solution for bridges that can support cars as well as pedestrians?
Yes. Our bridges aren’t designed for highways, but they can be built to handle light vehicle applications up to 10,000 pounds (H-5 loading), enough to handle most cars, light pickups and ambulances. They can also be designed for supporting ATVs, golf carts and trail maintenance equipment. Let us know your needs and we will work with you to find a solution.

How long of a bridge span can you make?
To date, the longest bridge we’ve fabricated and shipped is 100′. Bridges over 50′ are shipped in sections to make shipping and installation easier and more cost effective.

Can your bridge design include a camber?
Absolutely. Cambers are used to offset the dead weight load of the bridge itself. Arched bridges are not available.

What are the foundation needs? Do you provide the design?
In nearly all cases, ReadySpan bridge systems work fine with standard concrete foundations. Bedford does not provide foundation design, but you’ll receive detailed instructions for the required anchor bolt layout.

When should we use stainless-steel fasteners?
Stainless-steel fasteners and hardware are available as an upgrade over the standard galvanized steel hardware and are ideal for corrosion protection in marine and other environments that are very wet.

What about the deck? What materials do you recommend?
#2 Pressure-treated southern yellow pine is standard, and FRP is available as an upgrade. The yellow pine is cost-effective and ideal for pedestrian, equestrian and H-5 vehicle bridges in most applications. For harsh environments, the decking can be made from our FRP material or composite decking. However, note that premium fiberglass decking should not be used on equestrian bridges because horses are sensitive to the texture.

What is the recommended safety spacing for midrails?
Though there’s no government standard in place for trail and park bridges, we offer horizontal safety midrails with 4″ spacing, which is the maximum allowed by government standards for railings and stairways.

Can you design a bridge that works on a sloped site?
Yes. Varying elevations are common. We’ll work with you to assess the needs and provide you with options.

What are the maintenance needs for a Bedford bridge?
There aren’t any for the bridge itself. You may need to occasionally remove leaves or limbs that are cluttering the bridge, but the structure itself is long lasting and virtually maintenance-free. Depending on the amount of direct sunlight the bridge receives, there may be some color fading over a long length of time. The FRP channel top coat with a painted finish provides additional UV protection.

Custom-Engineered Solutions Available

In most cases, you can meet your exact needs with ReadySeries materials. But if your configuration calls for a custom fit, all of Bedford’s resources are at your service. We have a state-of-the-art custom fabrication center, design and engineering services, and an experienced team at the ready.

Questions? Contact us today!

Bedford has been manufacturing trusted FRP solutions since 1974, and our knowledgeable staff is dedicated to customer service. Whether you have questions about ReadySeries materials or just want advice on the best solution for your application, we’re here to help.

Golf Bridges

Learn More
left arrow left arrow