City of Buffalo Department of Public Works, Parks, and Streets South Park Loop Road Bridge

A portion of the site was excavated and transformed into a pair of water bodies connected by a small waterway. To highlight and celebrate the park during the 1901 Pan-American Exposition, a temporary bridge was constructed to cross the waterway. The original 20-foot concrete arch bridge included decorative pilasters and overlook areas and was considered a contributing resource to the National Register-listed Cazenovia Park – South Park System. Over time, the bridge suffered significant structural and visual deterioration, leading to the installation of temporary railings and safety barriers.

GPI was selected by the City of Buffalo to provide preliminary and final design, construction inspection, and administration services for the full replacement of the aging structure. The project aimed to replicate the historic character of the original bridge while meeting current safety and structural standards. This required close coordination with the New York State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO), Buffalo Olmsted Parks Conservancy, and the New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT).

The replacement bridge features a precast concrete arch founded on piles and includes faithfully replicated architectural elements such as concrete pilasters, overlook areas, and custom steel railings. GPI worked closely with stakeholders to ensure the new design maintained the visual integrity of the original structure, while also improving safety for pedestrians, cyclists, and vehicles.

During construction, GPI oversaw the installation of a temporary pathway to maintain access for park users, including golfers and trail visitors. This effort involved significant site preparation, including brush and tree removal and the construction of a temporary access route using steel sheeting and sandbags. A temporary equalization pipe was also installed through the cofferdams and work area to maintain aquatic connectivity between the two bodies of water on either side of the bridge, preserving the local aquatic species and their habitats throughout the project’s duration.

This project won the ABCD WNY Honorable Mention for Bridge of the Year 2025, Under $2M.