Scioto River Pedestrian Bridge

Dublin, Ohio

Appropriately dubbed “The Dublin Link,” the Scioto River Pedestrian Bridge, a cable-supported pedestrian bridge structure over the Scioto River with a 500-foot cable-supported main span, provides a much-needed connection between the City of Dublin, Ohio’s historic district downtown with the new Bridge Street District. But the bridge does more than just connect communities – it provides an iconic, signature landmark to the city, forming an “S” across the Scioto River and rising to a single tower 169 feet high. It holds the distinction of being the longest single span, single tower S-shaped suspension bridge in the world.

The procurement method on the project – CMGC – was the first of its kind in Ohio. The City of Dublin utilized this method to accelerate delivery and optimize efficiency. Michael Baker, selected by the City for the firm’s expertise in cable stayed bridge erection and deep knowledge of CMGC delivery, served as the Construction Manager (owner’s representative) and provided inspection services. The firm worked with the City of Dublin, designer T.Y. Lin and contractor Kokosing Construction to successfully deliver the complex project.

The CM team successfully overcame several challenges, including coordinating with material suppliers all over the world, including Florida, Italy and Germany. Fabrication of the girders were also unique since each individual piece required it to be cut for its particular position in the bridge. The contract required that the fabricator of the structural steel be an Ohio Department of Transportation-approved supplier. However, the first choice, Tampa Steel, had fallen off ODOT’s-approved fabricator list due to several years of inactive use. The Michael Baker CM team was able to certify Tampa Steel per the ODOT certification requirements.

The bridge is an important economic driver to the area, connecting Dublin’s historic district downtown with the new Bridge Street District, which includes restaurants, outdoor cafes, shops and boutiques; open concept office spaces; upscale apartments and condos; parking garages; a new library and parks. Because of this increased connectivity, the area will continue to grow and develop. Now fully engrained into the fabric of the City, the aesthetic of the bridge can even change to match public events and festivals thanks to dynamic programmable lighting.