Stillwater Prairie connector

Background

The Miami County Park District secured a grant to purchase 50 acres adjacent to the Stillwater River and needed a bridge to connect the Stillwater Prairie Reserve and Maple Ridge Reserve, which are divided by the river. The District decided to build a suspension bridge because it fit with the adventurous spirit of the park setting and would create an engaging destination. They also desired a flexible system that would allow for the passage of strollers and dismounted bicyclists.

Challenge

During construction, Woolpert worked closely with both the contractor and the Park District to mitigate a number of challenges and make the project a success. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, adjustments of details and materials were required to address issues with the supply chain. These adaptations were performed with fast turnarounds so construction could proceed. Additionally, concerns with camber arose during part-width construction, prompting Woolpert engineers to perform a field visit and construction staging analysis. The analysis found that building from one side would cause a negative camber that would then rebound as more decking was added. Field conditions supported this analysis, and the final surface proved to be level as planned.

Solution

Woolpert began with a topographic survey of the proposed bridge landing areas and a hydraulic survey of the river. Hydraulic modeling was completed to determine the floodplain widths and elevations at the 25, 50, and 100-year storm events to aid in the siting and sizing of the structure. Modeling was also supplemented by aerial imagery and other GIS data sources. As geotechnical information was limited, historic borings from an adjacent bridge were used, and the bid documents were adjusted to account for uncertainty with separate unit price items.

Outcome

The Stillwater Connector Bridge is 170 ft. long and has a 32-inch-wide deck with 42-inch-high netting. The bridge can be counted as one of the longest pedestrian bridges in the state. The project was den/livered on time and on budget. The Miami County Park District was excited about the project and satisfied with the end result of the bridge. The District was also satisfied with the work of Woolpert’s staff. As the client stated, “Woolpert’s staff has gone above and beyond to ensure our satisfaction.”

Benefits

As a result of Woolpert’s work, the Miami County Park District has another destination to draw more visitors to the parks. The bridge serves as a functional, highlighted feature for both the Stillwater Prairie Reserve and Maple Ridge Reserve.