Featured Bridge Upgrade Project

San Diego, California

Project Scope: Bridge Widening, Load Rating Certification, and Abutment Reinforcement

When a homeowner in the Sunrise Meadows HOA was ready to build their dream home, they faced an unexpected roadblock: the local building department refused to issue a permit until the community’s bridge was proven safe for fire truck access. To make matters more complicated, the fire department added stringent requirements: the bridge needed to support an HS20 fire truck load, be widened by 4 feet, and include TL-1 vehicular guardrails.

That’s where Paragon Bridge Works stepped in.

After our initial site visit, we knew this was more than a routine upgrade—it was an opportunity to transform a bridge that was barely meeting today’s standards into one that exceeded expectations. Our tailored plan included:

Widening the Bridge: Adding 4 feet of width to meet fire department specifications while maintaining the bridge’s existing structural integrity.
Load Rating Certification: Certifying the bridge to safely support the weight of an HS20 fire truck, ensuring compliance and peace of mind.
Helical Anchor Installation: Reinforcing the abutments with high-capacity helical anchors, delivering unmatched stability for the long term.

The best part? The bridge remained fully operational throughout construction, minimizing disruption for the community. In less than two months, the project was complete: the homeowner secured their permit, the fire department approved the upgrades, and the HOA gained a safer, more robust bridge at a price that fit their budget.

Outcome: This project was a perfect example of how Paragon Bridge Works turns complex challenges into seamless solutions. The bridge not only met all requirements but also showcased our commitment to efficient service, innovative engineering, and client satisfaction.

Before

Featured Inspection Project

Oakland, CAlifornia

Project Scope: Inspection, Maintenance Recommendations, and Critical Repair Identification

The HOA contacted Paragon Bridge Works to address flaking paint on their community bridge, fearing that rust had compromised its structural integrity. Our thorough inspection revealed that while the bridge could be sandblasted and repainted, additional issues required immediate attention to ensure long-term safety and performance:

Improper Water Drainage: Poor water drainage was accelerating rust formation. We recommended addressing drainage issues before repainting to prevent recurring damage. By correcting drainage, the HOA can protect their investment in repainting and extend the lifespan of the bridge.
Slippery Bridge Surface: The bridge deck was dangerously slick. We advised applying an anti-slip coating to enhance safety for pedestrians and vehicles. This improvement significantly reduces the risk of accidents, enhancing safety for the entire community.
Critical Structural Failure: A broken bearing pad—unknown to the owners—had led to a potentially catastrophic point of failure. We identified this as a priority for immediate repair. Repairing the bearing pad prevented further structural damage, ensuring continued safe use of the bridge and avoiding costly future repairs.

This project highlights the importance of regular bridge inspections. By identifying and addressing underlying issues, we helped the HOA avoid costly future repairs and ensured their bridge remains safe and functional.