Gilman Street Overcrossing

Not only is Interstate 80 one of the most heavily used freeways in the Bay Area, the Gilman Street interchange is a main route for pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorists to reach many destinations and activities, including Golden Gate Fields racetrack, retail establishments, the Gilman Street Fields, and multiple residential neighborhoods. It also serves as a key access point for the Bay Trail, a 350-mile walking and cycling path that connects the entire San Francisco Bay.

Seven years after the concept was first presented to the public, the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) began reconfiguration of the Gilman Interchange in collaboration with Alameda County Transportation Commission. Designed to improve navigation, traffic operations, and safety, the scope of this substantial, two-phase project included:

• Roundabouts on either side of Interstate 80
• Multi-track bridge for pedestrians and cyclists
• Traffic signal at Gilman and Fourth Streets
• Signaling system for cyclists crossing over Gilman Street

Operating within a tight schedule, Crusader Fence installed 3,000 linear feet of steel fencing along the pedestrian and bicycle overcrossing. Incorporating many design elements from the Bay Bridge, the Gilman Street Bridge features a 230-foot-long tied arch, spanning both directions of the interstate with no center support. The graceful, dramatic curves of the overcrossing called for expert fencing craftsmanship to accommodate complex radius changes.