Green Acres: Spanning the Gap from Education to the Forest

There are few things more rewarding than how one seemingly simple idea can change everything. Such is the case for the Green Acres Foundation, whose mission to connect urban youth with nature has reached new heights in a big way, thanks in part to Axcess construction services’ work on their pedestrian bridge.

Green Acres wanted “a galvanized steel bridge to bring kids to nature.” Specifically, the non-profit wanted a bridge that connected the forest behind their new education center to give elementary-age children access to educational opportunities in nature. They also wanted a bridge that provided:

• Great visuals of the creek. They wanted a bridge that allowed children to have a clear view of the flowing water and habitat below.
• Low maintenance. They hoped to avoid ongoing maintenance and upkeep cost.
• Minimized impact and access. They wanted as little impact on the forest and stream as possible, and wanted to restrict access to overhead power lines.

Axcess designed a beam bridge made with 60′ long galvanized steel beams, a galvanized grating deck, and a galvanized tension cable railing to meet these requirements. The result of this custom-designed pedestrian bridge was a beautiful, maintenance-free solution that meets all their building requirements, as well as supports the foundation’s mission of bringing educational opportunities and an appreciation of nature to thousands of children throughout the Cincinnati, Ohio region.