Bridges are important functional and historic structures in both urban and rural settings. In CSS projects, designers are addressing the aesthetic design of a bridge, its linkages to the surrounding context at each end of the bridge, and the functions that bridges can serve for pedestrians, bicyclists.
“Bridges and other related major structures play an important role in defining the manner in which a highway affects the aesthetic, scenic, historic, and cultural resources of the corridor within which it is located. The geometric criteria in the AASHTO Green Book for new or replacement bridges deal primarily with the width of the bridge deck and its relationship to approach roads. Early design coordination is important when establishing the width of a new or replacement bridge and in determining its horizontal and vertical alignment. Road engineers, architects, and landscape architects, as well as members of the community, can provide input to help the bridge designer determine the appropriate geometric dimensions and overall appearance of the bridge.”
– From Flexibility in Highway Design (FHWA)
Bridges that do not accommodate pedestrians and non-motorized travel can pose significant barriers to those users. It is important to provide safe and convenient connections for all current and anticipated users.
