Transportation Portfolio

Big Dam Bridge
Pedestrian Bridge

Project
The Pulaski County Pedestrian/Bicycle Bridge extends across a working lock and dam above the Arkansas River. Billed as the world’s longest pedestrian bridge specifically constructed for recreational purposes, the “Big Dam Bridge” traverses 4,200 feet across the water and connects the metropolitan areas of Little Rock and North Little Rock, Arkansas.

Containing more than 3 million pounds of steel, the Big Dam Bridge features a 14-foot-wide deck, two observation towers, and 650 feet of mechanically stabilized earth walled embankment. Multiple piers attached to the Murray Lock and Dam lift the bridge as high as 90 feet above the water. Spans vary from 70-foot rolled beams to 168-foot curved plate girders. In the evening, LED lighting treats features a colorful light display that can create more than 16 million colors to illuminate the structure.

• Preliminary design report
• Structural and electrical design
• Topographic survey

• ACEC National Finalist
• ACEC of Arkansas Grand Conceptor Award
• ACEC of Arkansas Engineering Excellence Award (Lighting)
• ACEC of Arkansas Engineering Excellence Award (Large Structural Systems)
• ACEC of Arkansas Engineering Excellence Award (Building and Technology)
• IESNA Award of Merit, International Illumination Award
• FHWA Exemplary Human Ecosystem Award
• Associated Builders and Contractors Award of Excellence
• South Central Construction Award of Excellence (Engineering)
• South Central Construction Award of Merit (Mechanical/Electrical)