Architect：Dietmar Feichtinger Architectes

Location：Weil am Rhein, Germany

Project Year：2007

Category：Bridges

Two main roads, the “Hauptstrasse” in Weil am Rhein, Germany, and the “Rue de France” in Hunningue, France, are situated on the same axis. To emphasize this highly symbolic and visual connection between the two countries, the footbridge is put along the axis and not into it for the view not to be disturbed. This visual connection is enhanced by the physical one, as the design of the bridge is a response to the situation. The technical challenge is evident.

A double hexagonal tubular steel arch is the main support element of the bridge. Towards the south, another single arch is leant against it. The inclination of this arch widens the visual scope.

The details of the design such as the supports close to the river banks, the widening of the slowly rising ramps, as well as the banisters consisting of cable-suspended steel-nets leave the sight of the river undisturbed and make the bridge blend into the landscape.

“As a strong and structurally clear sign this bridge be-comes a unifying gesture”

In July 200 1 the City of Weil on the Rhine and the Community of the three borders announced a competition to construct a pedestrian and cyclist bridge across the River Rhine. The bridge will improve the infrastructure of the region and cross-community relations.

The entire main bridge with a length of 248 m was pre-assembled at a preconstruction site a few 100 m to the north of the final location, then shifted on pontoons and floated. As the shipping route allows a closure of max. 24 hours, the process of “floating the bridge and putting it on temporary support jacks” had to be finished within this time slot..

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