This is a bridge concept that was put forward for a cycle bridge over state highway 1 (SH1) south of Auckland. We worked with respected Bridge Architect Jeff Wells to develop a bridge concept that had both architectural merit whilst at the same time providing an economic solution for the NZ Transport Agency.
Minimising disruption to SH1 during construction and maintenance activities was paramount, so a long-span truss was conceived that prevented the need for piers (bridge columns) in the highway median. The cycle bridge / footbridge is a long-span curved truss bridge spanning over the state highway with a 3m wide path and gradients to enable good cycling and disabled access. The truss was to be fabricated from replicated members to limit overall fabrication complexity. The concept features black laser cut paneling with the intention of the laser cut patterning to be developed alongside local iwi groups to help showcase maori art and culture from the region.
The bridge was one of 15 bridges that required works as part of the +$100 million tender. Unfortunately our overall design build team came second (of 4) on price so the bridge was never constructed.
Dan was the lead bridge engineer and bridge architect for the Pescara Point Cycle Bridge whilst working at Beca in their role as design team for a HEB led design and construct (D&C) tender for the NZ Transport Agency.