Modular Steel Bridges
Modular Bridge System Fabrication
Modular Steel Bridges: Fast, Strong, and Built to Last
A modular bridge system is one of the most versatile and cost-effective solutions for short-span vehicle crossings in highway, municipal, industrial, and rural applications. At BCS Fabrication, we design, engineer, and fabricate modular steel bridge systems built to perform under heavy loads and withstand decades of service.
Whether your project requires a permanent structural steel bridge or a temporary modular bridge for construction detours, we provide a turnkey process from concept to delivery.
Our modular steel bridges are fabricated from rolled or fabricated wide flange beams with diaphragms for rigidity and stability. They’re engineered for efficient installation and can be adapted to a wide variety of site conditions. Contact BCS Fabrication today at 970 744 6369 or use our online form to request a customized quote for your project.
Frequently Asked Questions
about modular steel bridges
A modular steel bridge system is a prefabricated bridge design typically using standardized steel beams. These modules are manufactured off-site, shipped in sections, and quickly assembled on site. This reduces construction time, cost, and disruption compared to building a bridge entirely on-site.
While the upfront fabrication cost for a steel bridge may be higher than some alternatives, the total installed cost is often lower. Factors like reduced construction time, and minimal disruption to traffic can make modular bridge construction more cost-effective in the long term. In addition, steel bridges typically have a longer service life and lower maintenance costs than wood or certain concrete structures.
Each material has its advantages, but structural steel bridges excel in speed of construction, adaptability, and lighter dead loads, which can reduce foundation costs. Steel can be fabricated in controlled environments for high quality and shipped in precise modules. It’s also easier to inspect and maintain over time, making it a preferred choice for many modular bridge applications.
What Can Our Modular Steel Bridge Systems Handle?
BCS’s modular steel bridge systems are designed for demanding environments where strength, speed of deployment, and cost-efficiency are paramount. These bridges excel in short-span applications—typically under 100 feet—where wide flange beams paired with intermediate diaphragms provide the stiffness and durability required for heavy traffic. Because they are fabricated in modules, they can be shipped easily, assembled quickly, and adapted to unique site conditions.
Common Applications
1. Highway & Roadway Crossings
Our modular steel bridges are frequently used for state highway crossings, county road replacements, and municipal street bridges where rapid installation is necessary to minimize traffic disruption. These bridges can be designed to meet AASHTO HL-93 loading or higher, making them capable of supporting everything from commuter traffic to fully loaded tractor-trailers.
2. Temporary Detour Bridges
For road construction and infrastructure rehabilitation projects, a temporary modular bridge can maintain traffic flow while the main crossing is being replaced. Because they are prefabricated, these structures can be installed in days—not weeks—reducing project delays and associated costs.
3. Industrial and Commercial Access
Many industrial sites—including manufacturing plants, distribution centers, and processing facilities—require a structural steel bridge to move materials, products, and heavy trucks over
drainage channels, rail lines, or other obstacles. Our modular bridge systems provide the necessary load capacity for permit vehicles, heavy equipment haulers, and forklifts.
4. Agricultural and Forestry Crossings
In rural environments, modular bridges are ideal for spanning irrigation ditches, creeks, and small rivers. These metal bridges can handle heavy farm machinery, logging trucks, and seasonal traffic while resisting weather and environmental wear.
5. Mining, Oil & Gas, and Utility Access Roads
Extraction and utility industries often need temporary or permanent modular bridges to reach remote sites. We design systems that withstand frequent heavy truck traffic, harsh climates, and corrosive environments. Options such as weathering steel girders and composite decking systems improve service life in these conditions.
6. Pedestrian and Mixed-Use Crossings
Although most of our modular bridge systems are designed for vehicles, they can also be configured as modular pedestrian bridges or mixed-use spans. This is common for parks, trail systems, and industrial campuses where both foot traffic and light vehicles share the crossing.
With BCS, you get reliable, durable steel bridges that deliver the structural integrity needed for demanding environments.
Get a Quote for Your Modular Bridge System
Get a Quote for Your Modular Bridge System
Concept
Call or email us to work with you on conceptualizing the look, feel, function, and general budget goals of your project.
Initial Design
Our team will create 3D models and preliminary plans along with a quote for review. In this stage, we will optimize the concept.
Final Design
After an order is placed, our structural engineering and detailing team will run all necessary structural analysis and create fabrication plans for our shop as well as stamped plans and calculations for permitting.
Fabrication
Our team of AWS Bridge certified welders will fabricate your bridge to the most-stringent AISC & DOT Bridge quality standards.
Delivery
We will work closely with you or your contractor to coordinate a quick and efficient delivery.
Support
We will provide detailed installation guidance and support through the completion of your project
Contact BCS Today to Get Your Modular Steel Bridge System
Whether you need a permanent structural steel bridge or a temporary modular bridge for construction, BCS Fabrication delivers proven solutions that are built to last.
Our team will work closely with you from concept to completion, ensuring your bridge meets all structural, functional, and budget requirements.
Call us at 970 744 6369 or complete our online form to get started on your modular steel bridge system today.