2019 WPRA Loop the aesthetics Park Design Awards Little Lake Boardwalk Bridges in Neenah & Menasha

prepared by aesthetics

Park Design Awards

Entry Form

Agency City of Menasha Address 100 Main St. City Menasha State WI Zip Code 54952 Agency Contact Brian Tungate Title Dir. of Parks and Recreation Park Design Awards Email [email protected] Entry Form If a consultant is submitting the award, please complete section below: Agency City of Neenah Consultant Name Patrick Skalecki Title Project Manager Address 211 Walnut Street Firm GRAEF City Neenah State WI Zip Code 54956 Email [email protected] Agency Contact Michael Kading Title Dir. of Parks and Recreation Email [email protected] Project Title Loop the Little Lake Boardwalk Bridges If a consultant is submitting the award, please complete section below: Date Completed June 23, 2018 Consultant Name Patrick Skalecki Title Project Manager Firm GRAEF$1,000,000+ Email [email protected]

Project Title Loop the Little Lake Boardwalk Bridges

Date Completed June 23, 2018

$1,000,000+ aestheticsinnovation

Innovative Approach to Coordination and Construction Sequencing = Success

Completing a bridge over a waterway has many everyday Pheifer Brothers was active in sequencing challenges. Completing two bridges concurrently, each with work by other donor contractors that a defined timeline mandating certain tasks be finished with volunteered to provide select construction, such as electrical regulatory and seasonal restrictions, is even more daunting. The installation work. Pfeifer helped work out timeliness for city design team’s approach to providing flexibility for progression provided elements such as donor boards, plaques, and of the work, and the creativity of the selected contractor, some landscape work. This cooperative effort included Pheifer Brothers Construction Co., allowed all the construction all subcontractors and suppliers, led by Pheifer Brothers milestones to be met and the grand opening to proceed without Construction, under the schedule framework provided by a hitch. GRAEF and the communities.

It began with identifying when to proceed with the work. Fall Project construction started in the fall of 2017 with the and winter construction can be difficult in the north, but it was successful goal of completing bridge piling and pier construction necessary to meet regulatory permit conditions for completing during that winter. The balance of the work was done in the the in-water work prior to ice-out in the spring 2018. The spring of 2018 with the grand opening held on June 23, 2018. contractor proposed using a temporary bridge running parallel The opening saw a great deal of fanfare including attendance by to the new bridge alignments at each location. This simple and both cities’ mayors, local and state government representatives, sturdy structure allowed cranes, concrete trucks, equipment, and the at the time State of Wisconsin Secretary of Tourism, and materials to easily access the site. The parallel bridges also Stephanie Klett. minimized the amount of material temporarily placed on the riverbed. Once the piling, piers, and girders were installed, the temporary bridges were removed, and the new bridges could be used for access to complete the remaining work.

In addition to sequencing requirements, the project needed to focus on coordination with the railroad. This coordination was proactively addressed and was completed early, minimizing downtime and allowing the team to schedule work within/ near the railroad right-if-way in the tightest possible window. This proactive approach reduced railroad flagging costs. aestheticsfunctionalism

A Need...Realized

Almost immediately after the Fox Cities Trestle Trail Bridge was challenge was solved by including a built across Little Lake Butte des Morts in 2007, whispers began pile supported boardwalk switchback about a dream to build a trail loop around the lake. As bicycle that met the railroad’s maze pedestrian crossing and pedestrian trail systems expanded over the next decade, requirements on the bridge side. On the navigation channel including additional sections that would make up portions of the side, an on-grade sloped switchback was oriented parallel Loop the Little Lake Trail, those whispers became shouts. The to the right-of-way line and lengthened to provide enough connectivity of the urban communities of Neenah, Menasha, runout length to gain the needed elevation. The on-grade and Fox Crossing grew from a wish to a need. This need was sloped switchback was also located to avoid existing trees and identified to serve residents of all ages, commuters and leisure potential wetland areas. users, able-bodied folks, and those with physical challenges.

The trail, and the bridges in particular, needed to accommodate pedestrians, bicycles, strollers, roller-bladers, skateboarders, fishermen, bird watchers, kayakers, commuters, and those just out to view the sunset. The 14-ft wide bridge conveniently provides fishing access while allowing users to pass. The railing type and height provides an open viewing corridor and is also an appropriate accessible height for fishing. Physically challenged individuals can see through or over the railing with ease. The mid-span bumpouts provide a rest area for those that need it with benches and clearances to allow wheel chairs to pass. ADA accessible picnic tables just off the main bridge approach path are also provided at both bridges.

The approaches to both bridges have gradual slopes at 4.5% that allow easy maneuvering for wheelchairs and walkers. The approaches to the Neenah bridge added complexity to the overall project. The approaches had to tie into the Arrowhead Park trail on one side and end in an occupied residential lot along River Street. The lot needed to be acquired and the City worked with the lot owner to reach an equitable purchase agreement. The acquisition allowed a small parking area with ADA accessible stalls to be added to the north approach.

Similarly, the City of Menasha acquired a vacant lot on the south end of their bridge to provide nearly identical ADA parking and bridge approach features. At the Menasha bridge north side, the proximity of a railroad spur created design challenges. In addition to providing an ADA accessible, railroad-required ‘Maze’ crossing, the trail also needed to gain approximately 6-feet of elevation between the railroad right-of-way line and the Menasha navigation channel dike within a width of approximately 40 feet .This aesthetics

Low Impact with a Nod to the Past

A main goal of the bridge projects was to provide public to allow easy viewing or fishing over the accessibility to the waterfront and waterways, while providing a top rail. Both structures provided a center wellness amenity to the residents of the region by completing span viewing bumpout with benches and a canopy that provided the Loop the Little Lake trail. The bridges needed to be a gathering spot over the middle of the waterway while not subtle and allow for wildlife viewing, fishing, and bicycle/ impeding the bicycle/pedestrian users. In fact, the bridge itself pedestrian flow. The amenities are located on the edge of has a deck width of 14-feet between railing, vs the more typical residential areas, as well as downtown business/industrial 12-ft for 2-way multi-modal structures, to allow fishing more areas, and needs to balance those diverging uses. easily without impeding the passing pedestrians. The selected composite decking provides a durable slip resistant surface, The Fox Valley, including Neenah and Menasha, have a strong with planks installed slightly angled to improve the rideability for connection to the paper industry and manufacturing. This bicycles; but also strollers, rollerbladers, and skateboarders. translated to industrial facilities lining the abundant waterways and being infused in the fabric of even the central cores of the Cities. With the former Glatfelter Mill and Kimberly Clark Mill in Neenah and Whiting Paper and Transcontinental in Menasha, it spoke to the team that the bridges needed to maintain a link to this history. The presence of the numerous railroads, including the Trestle Trail Multi-Modal Bridge on an old railroad trestle and part of the Loop, suggested a bridge with similar characteristics.

The bridges aesthetics connected to the industrial uses of the area in various ways. Pipe piling was used for the pier supports to mimic other structures in the areas. The team used steel girders with weathering steel to provide that strong but seasoned look of many other buildings in the vicinity. The abutments and piers incorporated a stained form liner finish that resulted in a natural stone appearance.

The railings used a combination of timber posts with aluminum tubing rails and stainless steel cabling. The cabling provided the protection needed while minimizing the obstructions to view. The railings also were held to a 42-inch height to the top rail aestheticscommunity benefits Working Together = Win!

When neighboring communities combine their efforts and enthu- million total) for both the Neenah and Me- siasm to create an outdoor facility that encourages fitness and nasha bridges. The balance of approximately an appreciation of nature, everyone is a winner! $650,000 was shared by the two communities.

The Loop the Little Lake Boardwalk Bridges were made pos- Organizations like the Dairyland Walkers have rated the 10K sible due to the unique blend of public participation across and 6K walking routes as 1A trails. They speak favorably about two neighboring communities, and the cooperation of each the spectacular views afforded walkers who traverse a short communities’ elected representatives. From the very first day stretch in downtown Neenah followed by a trek on the trail and the idea was developed in 2012, both Neenah and Menasha Loop the Lilttle Lake Bridges. residents and businesses were engaged. It all began with an announcement to ‘Navigate Neenah’ by Amy Barker of Future Also, events like the Loop the Lake Earth Day Hike encourage Neenah and Eileen McCoy, Former Neenah Director of Parks community residents to participate in a family-focused Earth and Recreation. This became Navigate Neenah-Menasha, the Day event. Both fitness and nature are embraced during such fundraising machine that brought together trail users, commu- family-friendly events. nity groups, businesses, and individuals to support and invest in the project. A symbol of this cooperation was a packed-house, historic joint council meeting in 2015 between the respective bodies of Neenah and Menasha, where both cities approved a resolution to move ahead with the project. The public partici- pated on a state and regional level via appropriated funding, as this project truly enhances the tourism draw to the Fox Cities. A private donation also made it possible to include an off-street trail connection on Doty Island linking the bridges. This was done with cooperation from the Neenah-Menasha Sewerage Commission because the trail is partially located on their land.

The Cities’ cooperation was evident throughout the project as proven by a second joint council meeting to approve the construction contracts with Pheifer Brothers Construction. This project was the perfect example of support at all levels of a community and all levels of government, producing a result that benefits the people for decades to come.

The total project budget was approximately $3.5 million with nearly $1.1 million coming from public and private donations. There was also major funding from the State of Wisconsin in the form of appropriation funding (over $1.7 aestheticsenvironmental stewardship Environmental Reuse & Protection

The Fox River and Little Lake Butte des Morts are highly Green certified or recycled construction valuable waterways located in an urban environment. materials were also used throughout Historically, they have been challenged due the high level of the project. The lumber used on both bridges industrial use along the corridors abutting the waterfronts, for all of the deck framing (nearly 1500 LF, 14-ft wide) and resulting in environmentally sensitive sediment buildups. The canopy framing were NBGS Green Certified. The over 21,000 south end of the Neenah bridge at Arrowhead Park is a capped SF of composite decking was made from up to 90% recycled landfill formerly serving the old Glatfelter Paper Mill. A portion material. LED light fixtures with photo-cells were used for the of the trail link on Doty Island traverses an old WeEnergies pole lighting on the bridges to reduce energy consumption. substation site that is also capped. During design, these locations were strategically developed to maintain, and in The Loop the Lake Boardwalk Bridges afford some cases, add to the environmental cap. Piling for the bridge access to the environment and promote cycling, abutments were located in the dike area outside the landfill walking, and green transportation methods. cell areas containing the sensitive material. On the linking trail, clay cap material was added prior to final grading and placement of the on-grade trail and turf surface restoration.

In the waterway itself, the winter work allowed all of the piling and other in-water work to be completed outside the fish spawning timeframes in the spring. The bridge piers were supported on 14-inch CIP piles that limit water and riverbed disturbance during installation as compared to spread footing piers. The use of a temporary bridge with temporary piers, rather than cofferdams and causeways, significantly reduced in-water disturbance as well. At each bridge erosion control measures consisted of bank reinforcement with riprap, and slope stabilization with vegetated blankets.

Also in an effort to minimize disruption and work with existing conditions, near the Menasha entrance the first bridge span from Fox Street was angled and lengthened to span a sanitary interceptor and treatment plant effluent lines within the channel. maintenanceaesthetics

Smart Choices = Long, Profitable Life

All municipalities are interested in products and facilities with The timeline set for the project strong, durable materials that require minimal maintenance. to start in the fall and complete the This benefits the public by minimizing downtime for the in-water work over the winter also provided facility and reducing cost for upkeep and/or replacement cost savings benefits for the contractor reflected in the components. There must also be a balance between bid pricing. The water levels in the Neenah and Menasha upfront capital cost and long-term maintenance cost. channels is lower in the winter with a lower release rate at The decision-making process of design and materials the upstream dams. This allowed for easier installation of for these bridges began very early in the design. the temporary bridges and access to the structure underside using waders. Winter is also a typically slower construction Multiple bridge types and features were considered including time so contractors more aggressively bid work taking place prefabricated truss sections and concrete girder structures, in at this time to keep their crews busy in a normal off-season. addition to the ultimately selected steel girder structure. The steel girder structure using weathering steel for both girders and CIP piling eliminates the need for potential painted steel touch-up on standard steel needed to prevent rusting. The composite decking has a slightly larger upfront cost, but the planks require minimal maintenance. Treated wood decking is susceptible to warping and splitting if regular sealing or staining isn’t done, something not required for composite decking. Splintering is also a thing of the past with composite decking. The cabling in the railing has locations of simple tensioners can easily be adjusted to keep them tight. The LED light fixtures have a very long useful life minimizing the frequency of replacement.

Accessibility for bridge maintenance vehicles was also considered and accommodated in the design. The structure width of 14-ft clearance provides ample width for vehicles. The decking was designed to accommodate up to 10,000 lb load so larger pickups could drive right onto the bridge from end to end and perform any needed work. At the north end of the Menasha bridge, a swing gate was provided to allow a truck to pass through the trail maze crossing at the railroad. summary

Project Summary

As June 23, 2018 was approaching, enthusiasm for the After making a final structure type opening of the final $3.6 million segment of the 5K Loop and alignment selection, GRAEF the Lake recreational trail was on the rise. Mike Kading, worked with both communities and completed Neenah’s Director of Parks and Recreation, said he’s detailed design, bidding, and construction management of noticed an eagerness in the community, “There’s a sense the two separate bridges. The bridge located in the City of of excitement that’s brewing.” The mood was similar in Neenah spans the Neenah channel and is 768 feet long Menasha with a “positive buzz” reported by Brian Tungate, with twelve 64-ft spans. The other bridge, located in the City Menasha’s Director of Parks and Recreation. “There’s a lot of Menasha, spans the Menasha channel and is 715 feet of people driving up and looking at the bridges. They are long with ten 63-ft spans and one 84-ft span. Both bridges curious about where they are and what they look like.” are steel girder structures supported on steel pipe pile bents and concrete piers. Timber under-decking supports In 2014, GRAEF was retained by the Cities of Neenah and a 14-ft clear width composite deck boardwalk featuring Menasha, Wisconsin to complete a feasibility study and and attractive aluminum and cable railing system. alternatives analysis for two new multi-modal bridges at two crossing locations of the Fox River. The study looked at Popular, user-friendly features on both bridges are the different types of bridges that could be built and determined observation bump-outs with a covered canopy. These peaceful the budgetary impact of the various options. One bridge resting spots afford pedestrians and cyclists a chance to location was directly behind the Plexus Global Headquarters rest and enjoy the view without impeding other trail users. building in downtown Neenah, while the second is located in the City of Menasha near Fox and Mathewson Streets. Multiple The Loop the Lake bridges were an extremely high-profile alignments were studied for each location investigating the public project. Successful completion depended on major site topography, river data, access to on grade trail routes, real funding participation from local businesses all the way down to estate impacts, permitting requirements, and timelines. Various individual children pulling quarters from their piggy banks. The structure types were investigated for constructability, aesthetics, community loves the entire area and supports it through active and cost impacts. A summary report with cost information use. The project also boasted multi-jurisdictional support and and crossing/structure exhibits were provided to assist each is a frequently programmed activity area in downtown Neenah community in seeking funding and help with future planning. and in nearby Menasha. It is truly a regional draw for bikers and hikers from all over Wisconsin and the nearby Midwest! project budget Project Budget Summary Budget page included as separate page with electronic submittal package.

Expenses Task/Item Neenah Bridge Menasha Bridge Design/Engineering/Delivery $ 87,281.21 $ 87,281.21

Testing/Investigations $ 27,050.00 $ 27,050.00

Owner Purchased Items $ 100,463.75 $ 105,175.40

Construction $ 1,515,584.73 $ 1,522,192.52 Total Expenses $ 1,727,379.33 $ 1,741,699.13

Funding Source Neenah Bridge Menasha Bridge State of Wisconsin / FCCVB $ 863,689.67 $ 870,849.00

Public/Private Donations (Future $ 554,272.00 $ 545,854.00 Neenah) City Funds $ 309,417.66 $ 325,000.13 Total Expenses $ 1,727,379.33 $ 1,721,699.13 project plan Project Plan Individual copy included with the submittal in electronic format. Neenah Rendering Menasha Rendering project photos Project Photos Individual copies of these photos are included with the submittal in electronic format.

Neenah

Neenah Photo 01: The bridge located in the City of Neenah spans the Neenah channel and is 768 feet long with twelve 64-ft spans.

Neenah Photo 02: A temporary bridge running parallel to the new bridge alignment was constructed at each location. This simple, sturdy structure allowed cranes, concrete trucks, equipment, and materials to easily access the site.

Neenah Photo 03: Fall and winter construction can be difficult in the north, but it was necessary to meet regulatory permit conditions for completing the in-water work prior to ice-out in the spring 2018.

Steel girders with weathering steel and concrete piers with form liners were used to blend into the industrial character fo the region. project photos Project Photos Individual copies of these photos are included with the submittal in electronic format.

Menasha

Menasha Photo 01: The bridge located in the City of Menasha, spans the Menasha channel and is 715 feet long with ten 63-ft spans and one 84-ft span.

Menasha Photo 02: Once the piling, piers, and girders were installed, the temporary bridges built along side the new bridges were removed, and the new bridges could be used for access to complete the remaining work.

Menasha Photo 03: Timber framing for the composite deck boards were assembled in sections offsite to expedite installation and save cost. project photos Project Photos Individual copies of these photos are included with the submittal in electronic format.

Neenah

Neenah Photo 04: Both structures provided a center span viewing bumpout with benches and a canopy that provided a gathering spot over the middle of the waterway while not impeding the bicycle/pedestrian users.

Neenah Photo 05: Bridge aesthetics connected to the areas’ industrial history in various ways. Pipe piling was used for the pier supports to mimic other structures in the areas. Steel girders with weathering steel provide a strong but seasoned look of many other buildings in the vicinity. The abutments and piers incorporated a stained form liner finish that resulted in a natural stone appearance.

Neenah Photo 06: Green certified or recycled construction materials were also used throughout the project. The lumber used on both bridges for all of the deck framing (nearly 1500 LF, 14-ft wide) and canopy framing were NBGS Green Certified. The over 21,000 SF of composite decking was made from up to 90% recycled material. project photos Project Photos Individual copies of these photos are included with the submittal in electronic format.

Menasha

Menasha Photo 04: The widened 14-ft bridge conveniently provides fishing access while allowing users to pass. The railing type and height provides both an open viewing corridor and is also an appropriate accessible height for fishing.

Menasha Photo 05: Maintenance concerns were crucial in choosing materials. The steel girder structure using weathering steel eliminates frequent painted steel touch-up on, the composite decking planks require minimal maintenance, and the cabling in the railing has locations of simple tensioners that can easily be adjusted to keep them tight. LED light fixtures have a very long useful life minimizing the frequency of replacement.

Menasha Photo 06: At the Menasha bridge north side, the proximity of a railroad spur created design challenges. The railroad-required a ‘Maze’ crossing that needed to gain approximately 6-feet of elevation between the railroad right- of-way line and the Menasha navigation channel dike.