Full-service FRP Solutions
Full-service FRP Solutions
To match the natural setting and provide access to viewing rare trees and wildflowers, the Division of Natural Areas and Preserves needed a bridge solution that was both attractive and durable.
The Eagle Creek Nature Preserve in Northeast Ohio meanders through a wide floodplain dotted with beaver dams, marshlands, small bogs and button bush swamps. It offers visitors a look at uncommon trees, such as cucumber magnolia and yellow birch, as well as 70 species of spring wildflowers and more than 20 species of ferns. The sphagnum bog shelters rare plants.
A pedestrian bridge and boardwalk were needed to protect and preserve the area while providing access for naturalists and hikers. Wanting a solution that would stand up to Ohio weather for decades and install easily to reduce disturbance to plants and wildlife, the Division of Natural Areas and Preserves turned to Bedford.
The trail required a 90′ x 6′ bridge. That length is ideal for the streamlined FRP materials used in Bedford pedestrian bridges because they can handle the span without requiring the heavy bracing that would make a concrete or steel bridge an eyesore. The Nature Preserve utilized Bedford’s engineering services to ensure that the truss bridge would not only blend seamlessly into the natural setting but would also meet the required load conditions. In addition, Bedford bridges can handle winter snows and high summer heat, are resistant to insects and don’t require any maintenance.
The bridge has been a hit with visitors to the Preserve. Reviews from years back show disappointment from hikers forced to turn back at the river, but now the Preserve is praised for having a bridge that is both sturdy and aesthetically pleasing.
We can create custom FRP profiles and structures for your specific application. The possibilities are virtually endless. In addition to our products, we offer in-house design, engineering and fabrication capabilities to match your product needs. Just contact us for a quote or assistance with engineering a solution for your project.
