The FRP West Thames Street pedestrian bridge is the first of its type in New York City, sporting a glass roof, lighting and an elevator and stairwell at each end. The architect of record's concept called for the bridge to maximize daylight and views to provide a safe but attractive crossing in the daytime and during the evening. FRP provided elegant function to the blueprint’s beauty. Comprised of 16 panels, the FRP decking is supported by a two-span steel lenticular truss bridge. Composite Advantage designed the structure to meet performance requirements that included a 90 psf live load and a deflection rating of L/360. Deck area totaled 3,482 sq. ft., with deck panel dimensions of 12.9 ft. by 12.9 ft., a deck depth of 4 in., and a deck weight of 8.4 psf. Deck features included curbs, access to utilities underneath and a long-lasting, non-slip overlay of quartz aggregate polymer.
FRP's light weight allowed the bridge deck to be prefabricated, preassembled and adapted for quick installation with minimal traffic disruption. From the factory floor, the FRP decking travelled from Ohio to Red Hook, Brooklyn where it was installed on the West Thames Street pedestrian bridge. The fully assembled structure then travelled by barge to Battery Park City where it was installed overnight. The new 230-ft. FRP West Thames Street bridge spans six-lane West Street and Hudson River Greenway. The structure provides pedestrians with a direct connection to Battery Park City from the Financial District.
Zero maintenance and longevity give Manhattan an FRP bridge product that will last a century. And there are other value additions. Aside from permanently restoring a much needed link between key sections of the borough, New York City’s Economic Development Corporation also sees the bridge as a link that will “help support Lower Manhattan’s economic vitality and enhance the community fabric.” The West Thames Street bridge opened to the public in late 2019.
