Brockport NY Loop Pedestrian Bridge

The Brockport NY Loop Pedestrian Bridge showcases Black Locust wood for both the bridge deck and handrails, offering exceptional durability, natural beauty, and sustainability in a high-traffic public space designed to last for generations.

Project Partners

No public partners for this project.

Used in this project

Black Locust Boardwalks

Project Details

• Project Name: Brockport NY Loop Pedestrian Bridge
• Location: New York, New York, USA
• Year: 2024
• Architect: SHoP Architects
• Landscape Architect: Behan Planning and Design

Product Used: Boardwalk

Press and Additional Resources

• Suny Brockport article
• The Architect's Newspaper

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The Brockport NY Loop Pedestrian Bridge is more than just a crossing point—it’s a destination in itself. Completed in 2024, this project by SHoP Architects in collaboration with Behan Planning and Design blends architectural sophistication with environmentally responsible material choices. Spanning a scenic section of Brockport’s walking loop, the bridge serves as a vital connector for pedestrians while enhancing the beauty of the surrounding landscape. At the heart of its design is the use of Black Locust wood for both the bridge decking and the handrails. This choice was driven by a commitment to durability, sustainability, and timeless visual appeal. Black Locust is one of the hardest and most rot-resistant temperate hardwoods in the world, with natural properties that rival and even surpass tropical hardwoods like Ipe—without the ecological cost of importing from endangered rainforests. Its dense grain structure and high natural silica content make it highly resistant to decay, insects, and abrasion, even in challenging climates. For public infrastructure like boardwalks and pedestrian bridges—where constant foot traffic, exposure to rain, snow, and UV light, and the need for safety are critical—Black Locust offers unmatched performance. Unlike chemically treated lumber, it requires no toxic preservatives to withstand the elements, making it safer for people, waterways, and wildlife. This aligns perfectly with the project’s long-term vision: creating a structure that will serve the community for generations while minimizing environmental impact. Over time, the bridge’s Black Locust surfaces will develop a rich silver-gray patina, a natural aging process that enhances its character without diminishing its strength. This weathering effect not only adds to the visual harmony with the surrounding natural environment but also ensures that the bridge maintains its beauty with minimal maintenance. The Brockport NY Loop Pedestrian Bridge stands as a model for future public works—proof that high-performance infrastructure can be both environmentally responsible and aesthetically compelling. It is a testament to what’s possible when architects, landscape designers, and material innovators work together to prioritize sustainability without compromising on quality or design integrity.