River Crossing August 2022

The monsoon this year brought heavy rain which damaged our river crossing. Annually, we have a few microbursts that leads to damage to our water crossing. Our water crossing is the primary access to our beautiful properties, and needs to be prime reliable in order to have safe ingress and egress especially when there are emergencies.

There is a 2-3 foot drop off from the banks of the crossing

Long Term, Cost Effective Solution

Low cost water crossing bridges such as these recycled steel railcar frames are likely our best long term solution to prevent reoccurring annual cost to re-construct and maintain water crossing.  Do we want to continue our current path of annual reoccurring costs or a path to a long term solution?

This is what a Flat Railcar is originally. When it is recycled and used as a Bridge, the wheels and suspension are removed, and various other modifications are done. They are about 85 foot long by 9 foot wide. It is common for bridges to use two side by side welded together, potentially giving a bridge span of 85 foot x 20 foot wide. The are strong, and plans exist to carry up to 80,000 lbs. Curbs and hand railings can be added after installation.

Approx location of 85’x20′ water crossing

For more information please visit:
Engineering behind Railroad Flatcar Bridges for Economical Bridge Replacement Systems

Current River Crossing Conditions USGS Cubic Feet Per Second Graph
During Arizona’s monsoon season (June – September), the river may not be in a favorable condition to cross. It is advisable to monitor the river conditions through USGS before crossing.
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