Submission #26 CLOSE

Team IBHL (Keller, TX)

Our approach to this design goes way beyond simply a bridge.† We see this structure as an extension of the landscape in which it exists.† A living, breathing structure stemming from one side of the Bow River to the next with a foothold in St. Patrickís Island.† We see the bridge changing with the seasons, in tune with the landscape it connects.

The structural solution comprises a steel lattice tubular truss with a precast concrete multi-functioning deck infill.† The tubular truss is a modern take on the traditional box girder truss with a nod towards the sinuous nature of a stem or green shoot found throughout landscape.† Prefabrication and modular design are utilized throughout the design.

A bridge is normally an element that is symmetrical.† Our design provides a bridge that becomes two sided.† The West side of the bridge opens up to Calgary and city life with the walking and cycling track and clear glass balustrading.† The West side of the bridge creates a green soft landscaped ribbon that provides a place to pause and contemplate what lies beyond on the Bow River shores and within St. Patrickís Island.

The structural system is innovative in its form and engineering.† Using standard, locally sourced sections it creates a support free span across the Bow River with a landing at the West tip of St. Patrickís Island.† The structure will provide a landmark both day and night.† The design also incorporates sustainable elements.† The use of fly ash concrete in the bridge desk system, recycled rubber on the deck surface, LED lighting powered from solar panels and landscape irrigation from a water harvesting system are all innovations included in the final design.

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