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| HDR's Rattlesnake Bridge project wins two engineering awards  HDR, an Omaha-based architecture, engineering and consulting firm, was presented with an Honor Award for the Rattlesnake Creek Pedestrian Bridge project at the American Council of Engineering Excellence Awards gala in Washington, D.C. Honor Awards are given to 16 projects out of 180 nationwide submittals. The Rattlesnake Creek Pedestrian Bridge is a 90-foot-long, 8-foot-wide cable suspension trail bridge in Missoula, Montana. The small-diameter lodgepole pine trees used for the trusses, floor beams and braces have been used in buildings, but not for a bridge. The U.S. Forest Service is promoting the use of these dead small-diameter trees, which largely go to waste or contribute to forest fires. This bridge was designed as a prototype to show other contractors and engineers how sustainable material can be incorporated into modern structures.The bridge also features the first use of experimental composite decking made from equal parts recycled plastic and sawdust, which was developed for possible use in U.S. Navy docks. To complete the bridge's unique design, 3/4-inch thick rubber mats made from recycled tires were installed on the deck for a non-slip wearing surface for pedestrians, bicyclists and horses. The project also won the Ramesh M. Khona Award for the display panel submitted with the entry. This award recognizes a photographic display panel that most effectively combines dramatic visuals and compelling style in demonstrating the true excellence in engineering. It was selected from 180 entries by a panel of independent communications professionals. write your comments about the article :: © 2007 Construction News :: home page |