NYC Bridge Fence System

NYC DOT commissioned HDR and Billings Jackson to improve the design of standard fencing details for both pedestrian and vehicular bridges from Manhattan Island. There was a requirement to meet stringent safety standards and the project involved the review of best practice and all city codes in order to establish the starting principles. These included a palette of materials selected for ease of fabrication and maintenance, a small fence aperture size to prevent climbing and projectiles, and a cranked profile for maximum protection.

Chain link was selected because it meets these criteria while being cost effective, widely available and preserving maximum transparency. Horizontal support bars were replaced with cables for the same reason. The option of an angled or a curved profile vertical support post provides flexibility and both are made from a standard W10X19 steel T-section.

Photography by Assaf Evron