The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) has developed an alternative safety railing design for the high Wabasso bridge, which it is proposing in place of the chain-link fencing project that was recently halted for re-evaluation. FDOT advised that it received no fewer than 150 complaints about that original design!
In response to the extensive feedback, FDOT considered a variety of solutions, drawing on inspiration from all over the nation. The new proposal copies an example from California’s Transportation Department and provides an aesthetic solution similar to that of the Barber and Alma Lee Loy bridges in Vero Beach in a manner that meets safety standards for our bridge.
The height from the road deck to the top of the proposed railing is 48 inches. The railing itself adds 16 inches of height to the existing barrier. The railing and posts are to be composed of galvanized steel treated to suit the environment and to last several decades. The design features square tubing mounted to the outside of the existing barrier and extending outward 7 inches. The former chain-link fencing posts will be removed.
Of the 3 horizontal railings, only the top 2 will be clearly visible from the bridge, as the bottom one is flush with the existing barrier. The horizontal railings and vertical posts are to be 2 to 3 inches wide. On the renderings, it may look as though the railing has a diamond plate relief, but actually the railings will be smooth.
The cost of this project is estimated to be almost 5 times higher than the original chain-link fencing project and is to be covered entirely by FDOT’s own funds. FDOT anticipates completing the project by the end of this calendar year, but is mindful of supply chain problems which could affect timely production of the galvanized steel posts and rails to be fabricated specifically for this project.
FDOT is hopeful of receiving positive feedback from barrier island communities and area bicyclists and pedestrians. The proposed railing will be discussed at our upcoming Town Council meeting on October 21 starting at 11 a.m. Next, the proposal is anticipated to be presented to the Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee of the MPO on October 26 and to MPO’s Board of Directors on October 27. These meetings are all open to the public.
The Town Council looks forward to input from all interested residents regarding FDOT’s revised plans to provide for the safety of bicyclists and pedestrians in a manner that respects the aesthetics of our uniquely beautiful surroundings.
Florida Department of Transportation
- Kris Kehres, Operations Engineer for FDOT Treasure Coast Operations
Phone: (772) 429-4885
Email Kris Kehres - Paul Lampley, Director of Operations, District 4
Phone: (954) 777-4439
Email Paul Lampley
Metropolitan Planning Organization
- Brian Freeman, MPO Staff Director
Phone: (772) 226-1990
Email Brian Freeman - Joseph E. Flescher, Indian River County Commissioner and MPO Chairman
Phone: (772) 226-1919
Email Joseph E. Flescher