This bridge is a joint effort between the National Park Service and the Federal Highway Administration and is part of a project that replaced two functionally deficient bridges, enlarged a tunnel and reconstructions some half mile of roadway in a scenic and environmentally sensitive Zion National Park.

The bridge replacement was achieved without interrupting park access by using the "part-width" construction method. Half of the new bridge was constructed parallel to the existing bridge, then one-way traffic was switched to the new bridge before demolition of the old one and completion of the new structure.

The new bridge is construction of precast, prestressed I-girders, built without any falsework or shoring. This sequence is very simple, minimizing construction time and costs.

Visually, the replacement bridge blends with the vivid red sandstone in the canyons. In addition, a native stone masonry veneer was used on exposed surfaces to reflect adjacent rock structures. Care was taken to minimize the impact of construction on vegetation and was so successful that after two growing seasons no sign of recent construction was evident.

CREDITS...

• Zion National Park
• National Park Service,
  Denver Service Center
• Federal Highway Administration, Office of Bridges and Structures

JURY COMMENTS...

This bridge is simple in its execution, deferring to is spectacular setting. Simple, straightforward, cost effective, even modest execution provides an elegant solution that respects its place in the environment.