Submission #19 CLOSE
Delcan (Calgary) and du Toit Allsopp Hillier / du Toit Architects Limited (Toronto)
The bridge design is inspired by the meandering paths of river flow through the landscape. Over time a riverÃs curves are accentuated as the faster flowing water on the outside of a bend causes erosion. These ìmeander bendsî are an integral part of the Bow RiverÃs character as it passes through downtown Calgary, in particular as it separates to flow around PrinceÃs Island and St PatrickÃs Island.
The design responds to the unique scale and asymmetry of itÃs river-island-river crossing, comprising a longer 106m southern span and a shorter 60m northern span. A sinuous S-curve deck smoothly ripples across the two stretches of water, pausing to land on the west tip of St PatrickÃs island. Both spans are supported by dynamic sweeping arches accentuating the outside of each deck curve, dramatically framing the crossing experience for users. The above-deck structure enables the deck depth to be minimized, keeping the bridges as low-down and close to the existing topography as possible. The scale of each arch is proportional to its crossing length, creating a pleasing variation in size that reflects its immediate context.
Where the bridge embraces St. PatrickÃs Island, a new meeting place is proposed. A fully accessible northern pathway provides a gradual, gentle link into the islandÃs trail system; steps within a terraced landscape provide a more direct connection to the south west end riverfront areas creating a place for people to linger, relax and enjoy the setting. This amphitheatre-type space provides the opportunity for programming such as small concerts, and theatre-in-the-park. The gentle land form steps down and opens out to merge with the islandÃs topography, accepting the new bridge structure and integrating into the landscape character of the island.
New approaches on the south and north banks will be configured to maximize connectivity with existing and proposed pathways. New grading will blend into existing contours and landscaping will help soften and visually tie new landforms into the riverside context.
