Can wood be recycled or reused at the end of its life?

Absolutely. Wood is highly recyclable, and timber from decommissioned bridges can be repurposed for new projects. If not repurposed, wood can biodegrade naturally, unlike steel or concrete, which require energy-intensive processes for disposal.

Crystal Beach Park Pedestrian Bridge - Woodward, OK

Crystal Beach Pedestrian Bridge

a Sustainable, Multi-Use Landmark for Woodward, OK

Nestled in the heart of Woodward, Oklahoma, Crystal Beach Park is a beloved community gem. As the city's premier recreational destination, the park offers a variety of activities, from picnicking and sports to hiking and birdwatching. With the addition of the Crystal Beach Pedestrian Bridge, this park is poised to enhance its reputation as a destination for residents and visitors alike. Designed and constructed by York Bridge Concepts, the 85-foot Crystal Beach Pedestrian Bridge promises not only to serve as a functional crossing but also to become a visual centerpiece of the park.

This article explores the vision, design, and benefits of the Crystal Beach Pedestrian Bridge, examining its unique design elements, the eco-friendly materials used, and the lasting impact it will have on the community.

Specifications

Width:
12’ (11’ Clear)
Length:
85’
Height:
9' above grade
Capacity:
85 PSF
Construction:
Deck Level
Span Type:
Multiple Span
Span Lengths:
(1) 20', (6) 10.75’
Material:
Douglas Fir
Foundation:
Timber Piles & Abutments (Acrylic/Polymer Coated where exposed)
Stringers:
Douglas Fir S4S Timber (Acrylic/Polymer Coated where exposed)
Deck System:
1-½” Timber Deck
Handrail:
Decero™ Picket Design Series
Crossing:
Lake

"Crystal Beach Park & Park in Woodward are proud to host an array of recreational activities – something for everyone! We have been fortunate to include a one-of-a-kind York Bridge to our collection – an appealing Timber Combination Span Bridge/Boardwalk that has truly added physical beauty and architectural interest to our development.

As a favorite hang-out for locals and visitors alike, we are pleased to be able to offer this beautiful addition to our Park. York’s insight and design of an original structure that pulled from the surrounding beauty of our area was integrated to the original stone columns that can be admired at the entrance to both sides of the bridge. YBC’s design team truly captured the magic of the location! Built with timber throughout, YBC designed ADAAG Pedestrian Handrails to complement the structure and provide accessibility as per the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990. Beautifully and considerately built, as per our vision! Thank you to the York Team, starting with our Bridge Consultant, through to Design and finally to the on-site crew that seamlessly delivered the final product. We will gladly work with York in the future if the opportunity arises."
– Mike Lowden, Facility Director, City of Woodward

Crystal Beach pedestrian bridge entrance in Woodward, OK built by York Bridge Concepts

Enhancing Crystal Beach Park

Crystal Beach Park is known for its sprawling green spaces, picturesque lake, and fishing pier. The addition of the Crystal Beach Pedestrian Bridge expands more of the park's attractions. Measuring 85 feet in length and 12-feet in width, the bridge is designed to accommodate both pedestrians and cyclists, ensuring that it serves the park's growing user base for years to come.

While the bridge is designed with functionality in mind, it is equally focused on aesthetics. With its clean lines, rustic timber finishes, and contemporary design elements, the Crystal Beach Pedestrian Bridge is an architectural statement. Its elevated position offers panoramic views of the surrounding park, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the area.

Crystal Beach side landscape shot of pedestrian bridge built by York Bridge Concepts in Woodward, OK

York Bridge Concepts: Delivering Innovative, Sustainable Solutions

York Bridge Concepts is known for its expertise in constructing timber and hybrid bridges that integrate seamlessly into their environments. The Crystal Beach Pedestrian Bridge is no exception, combining sustainable materials with cutting-edge design. By utilizing timber, a renewable resource, the bridge showcases the company's commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly construction practices.

The bridge was designed using York Bridge Concepts' Decero™ methodology, a design process that emphasizes not only aesthetic beauty but also durability and environmental impact. This approach ensures that the bridge is not only a functional asset for the community but also a long-lasting structure that enhances the park's natural environment.

Blending Functionality with Aesthetics

The Crystal Beach Pedestrian Bridge was designed to be both visually stunning and highly functional. Its 12-foot-wide span accommodates pedestrians, cyclists, and individuals with mobility challenges, making it an accessible option for all members of the community. This inclusivity aligns with York Bridge Concepts' mission to create infrastructure that enhances community engagement while maintaining sustainability.

One of the defining features of the bridge is its use of Southern Yellow Pine, a durable timber known for its strength and resistance to wear. The timber's warm tones blend seamlessly with the surrounding natural environment, creating a harmonious connection between the structure and its park setting. The bridge's sleek design incorporates smooth lines and minimalist elements, highlighting the beauty of the materials while maintaining the bridge's functionality.

The guardrails and decking of the bridge are built using composite materials that are both strong and weather-resistant. These materials ensure that the bridge can withstand Oklahoma's diverse weather conditions, from harsh winters to intense summer hear, while minimizing long-term maintenance needs.

Sustainably at it's core, Crystal Beach pedestrian bridge built by York Bridge Concepts in Woodward, OK

Sustainability at Its Core

In keeping with the principles of sustainable development, the Crystal Beach Pedestrian Bridge was constructed with a focus on reducing environmental impact. The use of timber in the bridge's design helps sequester carbon, contributing to a smaller overall carbon footprint. Additionally, the careful selection of eco-friendly materials and construction methods ensures that the bridge not only complements its natural surroundings but also reduces the disturbance to the local ecosystem.

To preserve the beauty and functionality of Crystal Beach Park, the bridge was designed to minimize its impact on the surrounding wetlands and wildlife. The project team worked closely with environmental specialists to ensure that the construction process was conducted responsibly, adhering to all local environmental regulations.

Furthermore, the bridge is part of a larger effort to enhance the park's accessibility. By providing a safe, stable crossing over the park's water features, the bridge opens up new areas for recreation and exploration, allowing more people to enjoy the park's amenities and connect with nature.

Strengthening Woodward's Heart

The Crystal Beach Pedestrian Bridge is more than just a functional piece of infrastructure; it is a key asset that will enhance the community's connection to the park and to one another. For Woodward residents, the bridge represents an investment in public spaces that enriches quality of life. As the bridge becomes a central feature of Crystal Beach Park, it will serve as a gathering place, a scenic route for outdoor activities and a place of reflection.

The bridge's universal design ensures that people of all ages and abilities can safely enjoy the park's natural beauty. Its spacious layout accommodates walkers, cyclists, and strollers, making it accessible to families, tourists, and outdoor enthusiasts. The bridge also provides a safe rout for park visitors to cross over the water and reach various park amenities, including the popular fishing pier, picnic areas, and nature trails.

In addition to its recreational value, the Crystal Beach Pedestrian Bridge is expected to become a new landmark for the city. With its striking desing and picturesque location, it is sure to become a symbol of Woodward's commitment to sustainability, community engagement, and public recreation. Over time the bridge will help solidify Crystal Beach Park as one of the region's top outdoor destinations, attracting visitors from nearby communities and beyond.

Collaborating with the Community: A Shared Vision for the Park’s Future

The development of the Crystal Beach Pedestrian Bridge involved close collaboration between York Bridge Concepts, city planners, and local stakeholders. From the initial design phase to the final construction, the project team worked to ensure that the bridge met the needs of the community while staying true to the park's aesthetic and environmental goals.

The project was also an opportunity for the city of Woodward to showcase its commitment to revitalizing public spaces and improving the quality of life for its residents. By providing feedback during the planning process to volunteering for maintenance and upkeep. This sense of community involvement ensures that the bridge will continue to serve Woodward for years to come.

A Lasting Impact on Woodward, Oklahoma

The Crystal Beach Pedestrian Bridge is more than just a bridge; it is a testament to Woodward's commitment to sustainability, community, and recreation. Designed by York Bridge Concepts, this eco-friendly, multi-use pedestrian bridge will enhance the park's appeal and functionality, providing residents and visitors with a safe, scenic route to explore Crystal Beach Park's many offerings.

With its innovative design, sustainable materials, and lasting community benefits, the Crystal Beach Pedestrian Bridge is poised to become a cherished landmark for the city. As the bridge becomes a vital part of the park's landscape, it will stand as a symbol of Woodward's dedication to preserving its natural beauty while creating vibrant public spaces that strengthen the bonds of the community.

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