Liberty Bridge Construction, USA

Project Overview

Constructed in 2021, the Liberty Bridge spans 1,000 feet across the Maumee River in Napoleon, Ohio, providing a vital link between two industrial areas and improving access to U.S. Route 24 for local commuters.

Designed as an eight-span concrete deck supported by seven piers on drilled shaft foundations, the bridge includes a 28-foot-wide roadway, and a 6-foot raised sidewalk, supporting both vehicle and pedestrian access.

The bridge’s name was chosen through a community contest, reflecting its role as a symbol of connectivity and civic pride.

Read more about the naming of Liberty Bridge.

To ensure long-term structural integrity in Ohio’s challenging climate, the project team emphasized durability, corrosion resistance, and lifecycle performance in the material selection process.

• Longevity & Durability – Materials needed to perform reliably under environmental stressors, including moisture and de-icing salts.
• Reduced Maintenance Costs – A critical goal to minimize future disruptions and long-term repair budgets.
• Enhanced Resilience – Engineering solutions that would maintain structural integrity for generations.

Banner image courtesy of The Blade / David Patch. 

Project Impact

Given the vulnerability of traditional steel rebar to corrosion, engineers selected Mateenbar60™ fiberglass rebar as the primary reinforcement—an innovative, corrosion-free solution ideally suited for bridge decks exposed to harsh conditions.

Why Mateenbar60™ Was Chosen Over Steel

• Corrosion Resistance – Non-metallic and rust-proof, ideal for environments exposed to moisture and de-icing salts.
• Lightweight – Easier to handle and install, streamlining construction.
• High Strength-to-Weight Ratio – Offers superior tensile strength for long-term structural integrity.
• Enhanced Durability – Designed for a 100+ year service life, delivering sustainable performance across decades.
• BABA-Compliant & American-Made – Trusted for federally funded infrastructure projects.

The project successfully incorporated 470,554 linear feet of Mateenbar60™ fiberglass rebar in sizes #4, #5, and #6—contributing to improved bridge durability and reduced lifecycle costs compared to traditional steel reinforcement.

This project was also recognized for its engineering excellence, with the Mannik & Smith Group receiving the Outstanding Award for Engineering Design from ACEC Ohio (more on this at the end of the article).

The honor reflects not only exceptional design and technical execution but also the thoughtful selection of materials that support long-term infrastructure performance—like Mateenbar60™.

We’re incredibly proud that Mateenbar60™ played a role in this award-winning project, reinforcing not just the bridge itself, but the purpose it serves; connecting communities, improving access, and strengthening the structures that bring people together.

This recognition aligns with our core belief that infrastructure is about more than concrete and rebar—it’s about reinforcing the important things in life. When engineers and agencies choose Mateenbar®, they’re not just choosing corrosion-free performance; they’re choosing a material partner committed to building a safer, stronger, and more connected future for all.

As Rich Bertz, CEO Emeritus of Mannik & Smith, stated to The Blade: “This bridge deck will last over 100 years. That does not typically happen. We’re going to see many, many more bridges built with this technology.”

Looking for another example of how Mateenbar60™ is redefining bridge construction? Don’t miss our Harker’s Island Bridge project—a groundbreaking achievement and the largest bridge in the world ever built without a single piece of steel reinforcement.

ACEC Ohio is the state chapter of the national ACEC (American Council of Engineering Companies) organization, which represents thousands of private engineering firms across the U.S. ACEC Ohio promotes and advocates for the business interests of engineering companies, supports professional development, and recognizes excellence in engineering through its annual Engineering Excellence Awards—often referred to as the “Academy Awards of Engineering.” Being recognized by ACEC Ohio is a prestigious acknowledgment of innovative design, technical achievement, and impactful infrastructure solutions.

Building the Future with Mateenbar60^™

For over 30 years globally, Mateenbar® has been a leader in strength, purpose, and sustainable innovation—proudly made in the USA and fully BABA-compliant. When infrastructure projects demand proven durability, superior performance, and long-term resilience, Mateenbar60™ is the smart choice. Contact our team today to learn how GFRP rebar can optimize your next project, reduce lifecycle costs, and deliver lasting results. Discover why Mateenbar® reinforces what matters most—building the future of infrastructure, one project at a time.