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Safe Passages for Wildlife: Corrugated Steel Plate Animal Crossing on Poland’s S8 Expressway

NCSPA » NCSPA E-News » Safe Passages for Wildlife: Corrugated Steel Plate Animal Crossing on Poland’s S8 Expressway
By: ViaCon Polska
large freight truck on top of Corrugated Steel Plate Animal Crossing

Building Connections for Wildlife and Communities

In the expansion of the S8 expressway near Zambrow, Poland, engineers designed more than just a roadway. A new corrugated steel plate animal crossing now ensures safe migration for local wildlife while also supporting nearby agricultural traffic. This dual-purpose structure highlights how smart infrastructure can serve both people and the environment.

Protecting Natural Migration Routes

The primary goal of this project was to safeguard wildlife by creating a safe route across the expressway. Animals can now follow their natural migration paths without risk of encountering traffic. At the same time, the structure doubles as a vital agricultural passage, connecting residents and farms along the DD-5a access road. This blend of environmental and community benefits demonstrates the versatility of corrugated steel plate animal crossings.

Corrugated Steel Plate Animal Crossing ground view

Corrugated Steel Plate Animal Crossing Design

The structure itself showcases the strength and adaptability of soil-steel engineering. Built with corrugated steel plates in a single-radius arch design, the crossing spans an impressive 73 feet, stands 36 feet tall, and stretches more than 132 feet in length. Each steel plate measures nearly a quarter inch thick, reinforced with ribs for added strength. To protect against corrosion, the plates were hot-dip galvanized and coated with an additional layer of interior paint, ensuring long-term durability.

Blending into the Landscape

Beyond functionality, the crossing was designed to harmonize with its surroundings. Reinforced soil front walls, finished with natural aggregate, allow the structure to merge seamlessly into the landscape. This thoughtful integration not only supports wildlife but also enhances the visual appeal of the region’s road network. Corrugated steel plate animal crossings like this prove that infrastructure can be both practical and beautiful.

Long-Lasting Impact

By merging modern engineering with environmental responsibility, the S8 expressway crossing improves safety for both people and animals. It also establishes a long-lasting piece of infrastructure that will serve generations to come. With projects like this, corrugated steel plate animal crossings continue to demonstrate their role in sustainable transportation solutions.

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