Submission #27 CLOSE
Read Jones Christoffersen (Calgary), Riddell Kurczaba, Simpson Roberts, Carson McCulloch, Stebnicki and Partners
The shape and structural concept conceived for Calgary Municipal Land CorporationÃs (CMLC) St. PatrickÃs Bridge are an integrated and innovative response to CMLCÃs vision of connecting communities, stimulating redevelopment, and enhancing St. PatrickÃs Island.
The curved alignment of the design came from our desire to not just cross the river, but to give a sense of flow and connectivity between river pathways, communities, and the Island.
We wanted to make the crossing an experience. The curving route, as you walk or cycle across, gives ever-changing views of the riverscape, the City, Fort Calgary, and East Village. As you reach the Lookout you can pause and enjoy the river and the stunning panoramic views that surround you.
The concept for the structure is truly an offspring of the curving route. The horizontal curve of the suspension cablesà tension forces counterbalance the compression arch formed by the bridge deck. Thus, we can give you not only a curved deck alignment that works in harmony with the structural action, but also a design with hanger cables on only one side and unobstructed and varying views from the crossing. In addition, the elegant shape of the cables and spires creates a unique and memorable image, day and night.
When you reach St. PatrickÃs Island, the constructed landform brings you down to the Island surface, where programmable areas will serve a multitude of functions in all seasons. The concept is dramatic, yet the cost is not. Based on engineering analysis and input from a contractor experienced in river crossings, we estimate that this concept is within CMLCÃs budget.
