Pulaski County Pedestrian Bridge

Big Dam Bridge

Little Rock, AR

This project involved the construction of a 3,463-foot-long pedestrian bridge over the Arkansas River at Murray Lock and Dam. Including the approach ramps on both sides of the river, the total length of the project spans 4,226 feet. This structure holds the title of the longest pedestrian bridge in North America that has not been previously utilized by trains or automobiles.

The construction work included drilled shaft foundations, pile driving, steel girder erection, cast-in-place concrete work, earthmoving, and the installation of mechanically stabilized earth (MSE) walls. Due to the bridge’s location over the Arkansas River, much of the construction was carried out using barge-mounted cranes.

The Federal Highway Administration recognized the bridge with one of its first Exemplary Human Environment Initiative awards. Additionally, the Illuminating Engineering Society honored the bridge’s LED lighting design with its Award of Merit at the international level.