The inaugural Las Vegas Grand Prix held on November 19, 2023, was the first race of its kind there since 1982. With an agreement between Formula One and Las Vegas for the next 10 years, it would appear the intent is for a long-lasting relationship. It makes sense to use hot-dip galvanized handrail and bridges that will be taken down after the race and set back up each year to accentuate that longlasting relationship between F1 and Las Vegas. With this being a brand-new racetrack, it was a huge undertaking to prepare the city for such an event with hundreds of thousands of excited fans, workers, and families descending upon Las Vegas.
With the races spanning Flamingo Road on the Las Vegas Strip, three temporary bridges were erected for the ease of moving both spectators and vehicles through the hustle and bustle of excitement. Temporary bridges became the obvious solution to facilitate people moving across the overpasses. With a tight construction timeline, modular bridge components allow for quick, easy, and efficient construction.
Three modular bridges provide access for emergency vehicles, guests, employees, tourists, and vehicles, connecting over 20,000 hotel rooms to the circuit. Constructed in seven segments, the longest bridge spans 760 feet along the famous Flamingo Road. Modular bridges were chosen for this project as they are quick and easy to construct, efficient and provide a safe method of traffic control. Hot-dip galvanizing is the preferred coating for modular steel pieces for increased life-cycle, corrosion resistance and durability. On the bridge decking, an anti-slip epoxy aggregate coating is applied for traction control to both vehicles and pedestrians. After the race, the bridges will be taken down, but are planned to be put back up for the next 10 years that Formula 1 Grand Prix with be in Las Vegas, NV.
Thousands of people were able to use suites whose handrails were hot-dip galvanized. The handrail sections in the project are meant to be removable so they can be taken down after an event and, in this case, the temporary structures for watching the race as well as entertainments venues were not meant to be permanent structures. These rails were specified for their strength and durability to last for years to come as they will be used in future events.
There were many challenges involved in getting these projects completed on time. The specifier uses batch galvanizing on most of their products and understands the durability and ability to have the product complete in a timely manner made the decision with confidence to use hot-dip galvanizing for their structures. The durability of steel coated with zinc is one of the best solutions for projects like these. They will be able to use the rails and bridges for years to come with little to no maintenance and the confidence that they are protected inside and out.
