Fast-Tracking Safety for Houston Students

Sergio Ivan Rodriguez Memorial Pedestrian BridgeFeatured project in 2026

When a Milby High School student was tragically killed while crossing railroad tracks on his way to school, the Houston community united around a common goal: creating a safer route for students traveling to and from campus.

To help make that vision a reality, Pape-Dawson was selected to design a new pedestrian bridge that will carry students safely over the active Union Pacific Railroad tracks near Milby High School. The project represents a collaborative effort among TxDOT, the City of Houston, Union Pacific Railroad, and the local school district to address a critical safety concern and deliver a long-term solution for the community.

While projects of this scale often require years to move from concept to construction, the team was tasked with completing schematic design, environmental documentation, and plans, specifications, and estimates (PS&E) in just six months – a significant challenge.

Meeting that challenge required close coordination among project partners and an innovative approach to project delivery. Processes that are typically completed sequentially were advanced concurrently, allowing the team to reduce the overall schedule. Early identification of long-lead materials, including the bridge’s prefabricated steel truss, helped expedite construction by enabling procurement to begin well before a contractor was selected.

Beyond safety, the project team focused the design on accessibility, convenience, and user experience. After evaluating multiple locations, stakeholders selected a site that provides students with direct access to the school campus, minimizing travel distance and encouraging daily use.

The bridge design also incorporates features that enhance comfort and security, including weather protection, lighting, and accessible pathways. These elements help ensure the structure remains a practical and inviting path for students throughout the year, regardless of weather or time of day.

Expected to be completed in early 2027, the pedestrian bridge will provide a safe crossing for generations of students while serving as a lasting symbol of the community’s commitment to student safety. The bridge will also honor Milby High School student Sergio Ivan Rodriguez, whose tragic loss inspired action and accelerated efforts to create a safer future for others.