HomeMy WebLinkAbout2026-033 Quakertown Park BridgeMay 29, 2026 Report No. 2026-033
INFORMAL STAFF REPORT
TO MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL
SUBJECT:
Provide information regarding the collision to the historic Quakertown Park bridge, the results of
a subsequent structural evaluation, and summary of immediate safety repairs.
BACKGROUND:
The pedestrian bridge in Quakertown Park, constructed in 1929, serves as a historic connection,
across Pecan Creek, between the Civic Center, Emily Fowler Central Library and the northern half
of Quakertown Park. Constructed by S. A. Bushey, on behalf of the Parks Board, the foot bridge
was designed to have a “rustic effect,” that added “considerably to the attractiveness of the park.”
On November 14, 2025, a vehicle struck the west end of the pedestrian bridge damaging the
guardrail and rock façade in addition to revealing several pre‑existing maintenance needs.
Following an initial inspection by the City Engineer, staff closed the bridge to the public and
coordinated installation of temporary barricades and minor safety repairs while a full structural
evaluation was completed.
DISCUSSION:
The City received a condition assessment report for the bridge prepared by Kimley-Horn Inc. on
March 19, 2026. The assessment provided recommendations for both repair of the existing
structure and full replacement options, including conceptual cost estimates.
Bridge Repair
The assessment determined there were immediate life-safety repairs related to the railing and
cracking which needed to be addressed in order to open the bridge back for pedestrian traffic.
These repairs were completed on May 26, 2026, for a total cost of $7,650 which has allowed the
bridge to be reopened for pedestrians. Repairs were funded through the City’s Risk Retention
Fund.
Additionally, the assessment determined there is an additional $53,300 in repairs required to
address all other maintenance needs identified. These repairs address deferred maintenance
issues such as concrete cracks and spalls below the bridge deck and exposed steel reinforcement
which do not currently pose an immediate life-safety risk, but if maintenance continues to be
deferred these issues could result in the need for more costly future repairs or a shortened service
life for the bridge. The report states that performing these repairs is estimated to extend the life
of the existing structure by 25 years. Funding for the additional repairs is currently being
identified.
Bridge Replacement
May 29, 2026 Report No. 2026-033
As the bridge was assessed, the evaluation also included options for replacement as a potential
opportunity for consideration to accelerate goals established in the Design Downtown Plan. This
dual-path assessment resulted in two conceptual replacement options.
Replacement Option 1 – Custom Reinforced Concrete Bridge:
This option consists of complete removal of the existing structure and replacement with a custom
reinforced concrete bridge consistent with the Design Downtown Denton Plan’s updates for
Quakertown Park. The conceptual cost estimated by the consultants for this option is $1.2
million. While the schedule would depend on several variables, a conceptual timeline includes
approximately four months for survey and design and seven to ten months for construction.
Replacement Option 2 – Prefabricated Steel Truss Bridge:
This option consists of complete removal of the existing structure and replacement with a
standardized prefabricated steel truss bridge. The conceptual cost estimated by the consultants
for this option is $748,000. A conceptual schedule includes approximately four months for
survey and design and seven to ten months for construction.
A replacement of the bridge would require approval by the Historic Landmark Commission,
Parks, Recreation and Beautification Board, and City Council.
Council Consideration
The replacement of the bridge will be evaluated for inclusion in the Parks Department Capital
Improvement Plan for City Council’s consideration through the annual budget process.
ATTACHMENTS:
Quakertown Park Bridge – Condition Assessment Report
STAFF CONTACT:
Mike Linder
Senior Engineer – Engineering
Mike.Linder@cityofdenton.com
(940)-349-8942
PARTICIPATING DEPARTMENTS:
Engineering, Parks, and Planning.
STAFF TIME TO COMPLETE REPORT:
4 hours