This is a fair-weather crossing in Laurel Hill and provides a connection to the Cross County Trail. Every new water crossing I have seen in Laurel Hill is of the same type. This may have been built by the developer rather than the Park Authority. The reason for the use of fair-weather crossings in Fairfax County is they are cheaper than bridges and less likely to be damaged by flooding. Does this look like a crossing where a bridge would have been too expensive to build?

I have walked trails in Virginia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, North Carolina, Tennessee, Indiana, Michigan, Vermont, and New Hampshire. I have yet to see a fair-weather crossing in any of these areas. They appear to be confined to Fairfax County.

My concern is that Fairfax County has adopted bridge construction specifications far in excess of those of other jurisdictions. This may be forcing the Park Authority to opt out of most bridge construction.

One of my walkers remarked that they have seen something similar overseas. It would be helpful to know if this type of crossing is in use anywhere else in this country. I would appreciate your help in informing me whether or not you have seen any of these crossings outside of Fairfax County. If you have not seen these crossings outside of Fairfax County tell me areas where you have walked. If you have seen these crossings outside of Fairfax County please tell me where. If you feel uncomfortable with these crossings tell me that. You may email your response to bridges@restonpaths.com. This is a temporary email address just to collect this information. Your email address will not be used in any way other than to confirm the receipt of your message.

I leave you with a picture of a stream crossing for a sidewalk along Miller Road in Oakton. Does this crossing meet ADA requirements? I appreciate your help in gathering the requested information.

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