Barge Receives Grand Award at ACEC Alabama 2026 Engineering Excellence Awards

Barge’s Parkwood Road Bridge Rehabilitation project received a Grand Award at the American Council of Engineering Companies (ACEC) Alabama annual 2026 Engineering Excellence Awards in Huntsville. The competition recognizes engineering firms for projects that demonstrate an exceptional degree of innovation, complexity, achievement, and value.  

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Since 1941, the Parkwood Road Bridge has served as a vital connection for residents, commuters, and businesses in Jefferson County, Alabama. Decades of heavy traffic and exposure to the elements caused significant structural deterioration, prompting the Jefferson County Commission to seek a long-term, cost-effective solution to restore the bridge.

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Barge was selected as the Prime Design Engineer, performing a preliminary design analysis to assess issues. The team streamlined the process by recommending a complete replacement of the superstructure rather than just the deck, introducing Valmont U-BEAM™ and Press-Brake Tub Girders to enhance durability and efficiency. Used for the first time in Alabama, the innovative approach eliminated complex demolition work, reduced construction time by four months, and minimized community disruption. The bridge was also widened and upgraded to meet modern load standards, ensuring it can accommodate future traffic growth.

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The rehabilitated bridge now provides a safer and more reliable route for motorists, cyclists, and pedestrians in the community, while enhancing connectivity for local businesses and supporting regional economic growth.

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Bridge Builders of Alabama served as the Prime Contractor for the bridge project.

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