SAN RAMON, CA — The City of San Ramon and the Contra Costa Transportation Authority (CCTA) have officially opened the Iron Horse Trail Overcrossing at Bollinger Canyon Road — a new pedestrian and cyclist bridge designed by global consulting group COWI.
The long-anticipated project eliminates a major safety concern by separating trail users from one of the busiest roads in the region. The new signature structure not only enhances connectivity and multimodal travel but also introduces a landmark feature into San Ramon’s evolving downtown.
As prime consultant and engineer of record, COWI led the design, engineering, and design support during construction for the $21.6 million project. The result is a 340-foot, six-span cable-stayed bridge with 570 feet of retaining wall approaches, a central V-shaped steel pylon, and architecturally integrated lighting and railing systems.
“This bridge is a celebration of safe, sustainable design and community placemaking,” said Matt Baughman, Associate Project Director at COWI. “From concept to completion, COWI’s team worked closely with our client and stakeholders to deliver a project that not only meets today’s mobility needs but also becomes part of San Ramon’s identity.”
The project was designed to minimize traffic disruptions and environmental impact during construction. Steel components were preassembled and lifted into place in two 170-foot sections, while full-depth precast deck panels reduced formwork and construction time. The design also incorporates over 7,300 native plants, 80 trees, and a series of landscaped gathering areas that encourage rest and recreation.
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The overcrossing features a custom railing system that combines painted steel fin plates and stainless-steel mesh, integrating safety with aesthetics. Functional lighting is built directly into the handrails to enhance nighttime safety, while aesthetic lighting fixtures illuminate the bridge’s cables, piers, and pylon. The side piers are designed in a V-shape to echo the form of the central pylon, and each is supported by a single large-diameter drilled shaft for minimal footprint.
The Iron Horse Trail Overcrossing connects neighborhoods, parks, and commercial areas. The project was commissioned by the Contra Costa Transportation Authority in collaboration with the City of San Ramon. Construction began in 2023 following a final design phase that started in 2020.
“This bridge isn’t just functional; it’s an iconic structure designed with community in mind," CCTA Commissioner Newell Arnerich said. "After reviewing over 20 design options and listening to public input, we landed on a cable-stayed bridge with a single center tower, minimizing its footprint on the roadway while creating a visually striking landmark. It’s safe, it’s beautiful, and it reflects San Ramon’s modern identity. Most importantly, this overcrossing eliminates a dangerous at-grade crossing. Families, students, cyclists, and trail users no longer have to dart across Bollinger Canyon Road’s six lanes of traffic. They now glide over it — safe and stress-free”
