Pleasant Park, spanning an impressive 92 acres, stands as a beacon of thoughtful urban development in the Raleigh, NC suburb of Apex. Designed to cater to the diverse needs of a rapidly growing community, the park balances state-of-the-art recreational facilities with a commitment to preserving natural environments. From bustling sports courts to tranquil wetland ecosystems, Pleasant Park represents a modern vision for urban green spaces.

Key features of the park include:

• Six multi-purpose fields, supporting everything from soccer to community events.
• Courts for tennis, pickleball, and basketball, creating a hub for athletic pursuits.
• A 1.5-acre Enchanted Forest featuring nine inclusive play villages, designed for individuals of all ages and abilities.
• Extensive walking trails, natural landscapes, and wetland conservation areas.

In designing Pleasant Park, the Town of Apex aimed to create not just a recreational space but a community landmark that prioritizes inclusivity, sustainability, and harmony with nature. The integration of timber bridges into the park's design was a critical component of this vision, offering both functionality and aesthetic appeal.

York Bridge Concepts (YBC) is renowned for its expertise in timber bridge design and construction. With a focus on sustainability, aesthetics, and longevity, YBC's structures are as visually stunning as they are functional. For Pleasant Park, YBC was tasked with designing and building:

• A 63-foot HS20-44 vehicular timber bridge with an attached pedestrian section.
  
  
• Three pedestrian bridges, measuring 66 feet, 80 feet, and 30 feet, respectively.

These bridges play an integral role in connecting the various sections of Pleasant Park, ensuring accessibility while respecting the surrounding wetlands.

The 63-foot HS20-44 timber vehicular bridge is the backbone of Pleasant Park's infrastructure, enabling vehicular access over protected wetlands. What sets this bridge apart is its attached pedestrian section, which provides safe passage for walkers, runners, and cyclists without disrupting vehicular flow.

• Free-Span Engineering: To protect the tributary and wetlands below, the bridge was designed as a free-span structure, eliminating the need for supports within the sensitive ecosystem.
  
  
• Glue Laminated (Glulam) Beams: These beams provide the strength needed to support vehicular traffic while maintaining the natural aesthetic of timber.
  
  

YBC’s approach to the vehicular bridge exemplifies their dedication to eco-conscious construction. The materials and techniques used were carefully chosen to align with Pleasant Park’s emphasis on environmental preservation.

• Sustainably Sourced Timber: The primary material for the bridge is responsibly harvested timber, reducing the environmental impact compared to steel or concrete.
  
  
• Reinforced Polymeric Lumber (RPL): Recycled RPL is used for the pedestrian decking and handrails, ensuring long-term durability while promoting sustainability.
  
  
• Protective Coatings: Exposed timber is treated with acrylic coatings and oil stains, enhancing its resistance to weathering and extending its lifespan.
  
  

The vehicular bridge not only facilitates movement but also enhances the park’s visual appeal. Its natural timber design integrates seamlessly with the surrounding landscape, creating a welcoming gateway for visitors entering Pleasant Park.

In addition to the vehicular bridge, YBC designed and built three pedestrian bridges, spanning 66 feet, 80 feet, and 30 feet. These bridges connect different sections of the park, allowing visitors to explore the trails, play areas, and wetlands without impacting the delicate ecosystems below.

Each pedestrian bridge was tailored to meet the specific needs of its location:

• Natural Aesthetic: The timber materials blend harmoniously with the park’s environment, creating a sense of continuity across its diverse zones.
• Legacy Trim Level: This premium finish includes details like RPL decking and handrails, ensuring the bridges can withstand heavy pedestrian traffic while maintaining their beauty.
• Durability: With a design lifespan of over 75 years, these bridges are built to serve the community for decades to come.

YBC’s commitment to sustainability extends to the pedestrian bridges, which were constructed using the same environmentally friendly principles as the vehicular bridge. The use of free-span designs further minimizes the impact on the wetlands, preserving their role as vital habitats for local wildlife.

One of the most captivating areas of Pleasant Park is the Enchanted Forest, a 1.5-acre space featuring nine inclusive play villages. Designed to inspire imagination and creativity, the Enchanted Forest required bridges that matched its whimsical charm.

The pedestrian bridges in this area were designed with careful attention to detail:

• Whimsical Aesthetics: The timber bridges complement the fairy-tale theme of the play villages, creating an immersive experience for children and families.
• Accessibility for All: YBC ensured that the bridges are fully accessible, aligning with the park’s commitment to inclusivity.

By blending functionality with creativity, YBC’s bridges enhance the magic of the Enchanted Forest, making it a highlight of Pleasant Park.