Park at Harlinsdale Farm Trail & Bridge

The City of Franklin sought funding for the Harlinsdale Multi-Use Path project to increase trail connectivity throughout the area. The project requires a new bridge crossing the Harpeth River to provide pedestrian connectivity between the City of Franklin trail system and Harlinsdale Park, serving as the primary catalyst to link the northeast and northwest portions of the City.

Working under a tight deadline, Benesch collaborated closely with the City to develop the project vision and translate it into a winning grant application. Benesch led the effort, writing the application, leading the public involvement meeting and coordinating with the City to complete the submission on time. The team successfully secured $2 million in TDOT Transportation Alternatives funding, after which Benesch was selected to provide design services for the project.

Situated in a FEMA-designated Zone AE flood zone, the new Harpeth River crossing presented a significant challenge in balancing performance, environmental impacts and cost. The Benesch team evaluated several span configurations, ranging from shorter options with frequent flood inundation to longer options that kept the path above the 100-year flood elevation. The team arrived at a cost-effective solution: a 220-foot long, three-span concrete beam structure supported by steel pile stub abutments and drilled shaft concrete bents. As a signature bridge for the trail and park, the structure incorporates decorative finishes, inlaid artwork and recessed lighting.

Scope of services included land surveying, NEPA document preparation, trail design, hydraulic modeling, CLOMR/LOMR submittals and bridge design. Throughout the visioning and design process, the team maintained significant coordination with community stakeholders, including City departments, Friends of Franklin Parks and residents of Chestnut Bend.