Design Story: Bridge at Laura Bradley Park

Maurer-Stutz, Inc. recently completed planning, design, and resident engineering services for the Peoria Park District on the Bradley Park Bridge Replacement project in Peoria, IL. Located in Lower Laura Bradley Park, this bridge provides access to two dog parks, several disk golf holes, and the District’s Maintenance and Facilities Building. Over time, the existing deck beams and timber piles had become deteriorated to the point that a new bridge was required. Leveraging the longstanding relationship between the PPD Planning Department and MSI Staff, a new three-sided precast concrete arch structure was proposed. This innovative bridge design is economical, functional, and aesthetically pleasing.

The new structure allows the natural stream bed to reestablish, provides a wider opening for large storm events, and has less maintenance than steel or deck beam bridge structures. In addition to the new bridge, the existing roadway was improved via new pavement, curbs, ADA sidewalks, fencing, and improved roadway geometrics.

“Maurer Stutz was proud to be part of this project. We enjoyed working with the Peoria Park District and being part of a project that will be a large benefit to the community. We were also able to bring a group of Bradley Engineering students out through the ASCE Student Chapter to see the project during construction.” – Curtis Lynn, PE, Construction Group Lead

The bridge was recently celebrated by the Peoria Park District with a ribbon cutting event. Several of MSI’s Transportation and Construction Engineering professionals were in attendance. Mike Friberg, RLA-ASLA (PPD Planner and MSI’s client for the project) commented that the delivery drivers and park maintenance crews LOVE the new entrance to their building…no more jumping the curb! Check out the WEEK 25 News Coverage.

Watch a timelapse video of the bridge arches installation.

Maurer-Stutz provides comprehensive engineering planning, design, and construction engineering for clients in Central Illinois and beyond. Contact us today!