Sustainable Land Development Today - January 2008 - (Page 57) a special bike trip, paddle trip, and even a bus tour intended to accommodate as many visitors as possible. Critical Bridges As work on the preserve commenced, contracts were awarded to partners that would espouse the county’s commitment to preserving the environment. One of these contractors was Franklin, North Carolina-based Bridge Builders USA, Inc. “This visionary project tapped many of our strengths. It was a huge engineering challenge encompassing vehicular and pedestrian bridges in addition to an observation tower,” said Greg Solomon, Bridge Builders general manager. “We began work by constructing three vehicular timber bridges to provide access around the project. After that, we constructed the boardwalk trail system. Finally we built an observation tower,” he said. Some of the bridges connect to walking trails between the lagoons. One 500-foot long span meanders through the mangroves and was a con- siderable challenge for Bridge Builders since it is extremely narrow. The equipment required to drive pilings was limited by the eight-foot width of the bridge. Material couldn’t be staged on site but had to be brought in piece by piece. The company will soon repeat the feat, a 600foot long pedestrian bridge that weaves through the mangroves before culminating in an observation platform. The 50-foot tower at Robinson Preserve is surrounded by water and allows a dramatic 360-degree panorama of the area, including views of Tampa as well as Perico Bayou and Palma Sola Bay. It also has two observation decks, one at 20 foot and one at 40 feet. “Constructing the tower was a major undertaking since the tide was an issue. Timing was critical,” says Tim Kris II, the company’s project manager. Barring any unforeseen circumstances, such as unfavorable weather conditions, the preserve is slated to open by winter of 2008. Solomon said Robinson Preserve is unique. ”It allows so many people the opportunity to observe and enjoy nature,” he said. Across the Board Success This win-win scenario struck a cord in southwest Florida, achieving a balance between accommodating population growth with the restoration of habitat held in the public trust. The Manatee County Board of County Commissioners supported the property acquisition and a funding mechanism that included a charitable contribution from the Robinson family, county funds, the Florida Communities Trust and host of local, state and county agencies.* Meanwhile, Bill Robinson is moving forward with his development, which now includes the golf course in a 200-acre green space surrounded by 20 home sites. “This is man and nature blending together for a sports wonderland,” Robinson said. SLDT Circle 162 • or www.SLDTonline.com/adinfo www.SLDTonline.com 57 http://www.SLDTonline.com/adinfo http://www.SLDTonline.com
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