Improving Safety and Efficiency
The Gilman Street intersection in Berkeley was widely known as the most dysfunctional intersection in the country. Drivers reported difficulty with merging and determining right-of-way on the confusing, congested roadway which had collision rates at twice the statewide average. Cyclists and pedestrians also felt unsafe having to dodge traffic.
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.
The new structures are designed for a minimum 75-year lifespan. Because the bridge spans over a public roadway, Type 7 railing was used to meet safety requirements. High-performance Sher-Loxane® in black finish was applied for long-term corrosion protection from regional coastal conditions.
Each end of the bridge features abrupt 90-degree turns to tie into the approaches that run parallel to I-80. These radius transitions demanded expertise in steel fabrication and installation, advanced techniques, and precise alignment to ensure seamless integration with the bridge’s approaches and adherence to structural integrity standards.
The project has increased safety and efficiency at an important intersection and has vastly improved the experience and accessibility of pedestrians and cyclists traveling between the cities of Berkeley and Albany. Residents are excited about being able to cycle across the freeway below and above it and how the bridge connects the community to the waterfront.
Funding for the $95M project included Measure BB, state, local, and federal funds. The prime consultant for the project was Parsons Corporation with construction by Golden State Bridge, Inc. According to Caltrans, Phase 2 will be completed in mid-July of 2024.
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