In an innovative response to a unique safety challenge in San Bernardino County, the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) launched a project that skillfully blends art with functionality. At the Y-junction of State Highway CA-18 and Old Waterman Canyon Road — a region known for frequent bear crossings—the objective was to enhance driver awareness and safety while introducing an element of public art to the area. To achieve this, Caltrans commissioned a series of striking bear sculptures, meticulously crafted from fabricated carbon steel beams, angles, and plates. These sculptures were designed not only for visual appeal but also for durability in the harsh outdoor environment.

The creation of these sculptures was a complex endeavor that required a careful balance between aesthetic and regulatory considerations. The designs needed to be lifelike and eye-catching to serve their artistic purpose, yet they also had to comply with California’s stringent requirements for highway signage. Meeting these regulatory standards was essential to ensure that the sculptures did not obstruct or confuse drivers, while still effectively enhancing safety and visibility at the junction. This balancing act highlighted the intricate engineering behind the project, showcasing Caltrans’ commitment to building infrastructure that is both resilient and functional, while fully adhering to the state’s rigorous regulations.

A critical factor in ensuring the longevity of these sculptures was the application of hot-dip galvanizing, a sophisticated metallurgical process that involves immersing steel components into a bath of molten zinc. This process metallurgically bonds a protective zinc layer to the steel, creating a robust barrier against rust and corrosion. The hot-dip galvanizing process not only provides cathodic protection—where the zinc layer sacrifices itself to protect the steel underneath—but also results in a durable coating that can withstand extreme environmental conditions. This step was crucial for maintaining the structural integrity of the sculptures over time, ensuring they would remain intact and visually captivating for years to come.

Following the galvanizing process, the sculptures were carefully painted to enhance their visibility and add a vivid, artistic touch to the intersection. While the paint contributes an extra layer of protection against the elements, it is the hot-dip galvanizing that fundamentally underpins the sculptures’ resilience. This process enables them to endure the coastal weather conditions typical of Southern California, ensuring their longevity and effectiveness in enhancing road safety.

This project represents more than just a creative solution to a local safety issue; it underscores Caltrans’ broader reliance on durable, corrosion-resistant materials, like those resulting from hot-dip galvanizing, in its infrastructure projects. From guardrails to overpasses, this process plays a critical role in protecting California’s transportation network from the relentless forces of nature. By utilizing these robust materials, Caltrans extends the lifespan of vital highway components, reduces long-term maintenance costs, and ensures public safety—all while adhering to the state’s stringent standards. The bear sculptures at this Y-junction stand as a testament to the successful integration of art, engineering, and environmental stewardship in modern transportation infrastructure.