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Many park and trail managers reach a point where they have to make a decision to install, repair or replace a bridge. The development of fiberglass-reinforced plastic (FRP) bridges has become a sustainable choice for many of our nation’s parks, including Rocky Gap State Park’s bridge installation that was highlighted previously in Parks & Recreation.

Choosing a new bridge for your park does not have to be a challenge. One way to simplify the process is by narrowing down the building material for the bridge. The benefits of bridges constructed of FRP are clear when compared to steel, aluminum and wood for building recreational bridges. FRP doesn’t rust, corrode, rot, warp or attract insects, helping FRP bridges last decades longer than other bridges. But how do you know which FRP bridge manufacturer to choose?

Performance

Performance is key when selecting an FRP bridge manufacturer, and it’s something that should be demonstrated. A manufacturer should be able to provide you with a collection of customer references and completed projects. Look for proof; don’t settle for promises.

The amount of experience here is important, but don’t let it outweigh other factors, like if there aren’t supporting customer references. Ensure the experience is a result of both quality and quantity.

Confidence

Look for an FRP bridge manufacturer that offers transparency about its production process. Knowing the details will help you feel confident in the financial investment. You’ll also want to make sure registered professional engineers are available to back the product up with data.

Confidence is essential — if your manufacturer can exhibit a reinforcing level of confidence supported by data, that can signal a smooth process ahead. In return, this is a process that you can also be confident in.

Clarity

Preparedness on your end is also key in this situation. With a structure as vital as a bridge, no stone should go unturned in your research.

The manufacturer’s representative should be able to answer any questions you have about the FRP bridge or provide a registered professional engineer to do so. You should also be provided with the timeframe for production, delivery of the bridge materials and the installation plan.

Cost Effectiveness

Pound for pound, FRP weighs significantly less than other building materials and, therefore, can typically be shipped partially or fully assembled by the bridge manufacturer. Your wear and tear with a product that checks all of these boxes will be minimal, making an FRP bridge a long-term and cost-effective option, but warranties may still be an option.

Installation and Final Touches

Once due diligence is done on this checklist, the fun part of planning starts. FRP bridges can accommodate so many different needs for your park, path, golf course or more.

When it comes time for the bridge to be installed, the process should be simple and easy and can be done with standard, common tools. The lightweight FRP material adds to the simplicity of the installation process as well.

Once your low-maintenance FRP bridge is installed, visitors to your parks and trails will be able to enjoy safely and steadily going about their way on your bridges for decades to come.

Eric Kidd is Marketing Director at Bedford Reinforced Plastics.