5 key facts about this project
### Project Overview
In 2021, the City of Ventimiglia initiated a design competition for the Foot and Bike Bridge, also known as "Passerella della rinascita." This proposal arose in response to significant flooding that affected the city and its surroundings, aiming to provide a vital connection for pedestrians and cyclists across the River Roya. The bridge is designed to facilitate transportation while contributing to the urban landscape's revitalization, encompassing a length of 140 meters and incorporating a single-span structure that minimizes disturbances to the riverbank ecosystem.
### Environmental and Social Context
The design addresses the rehabilitation of pedestrian pathways impacted by natural disasters, establishing a connection between the two riverbanks for enhanced community interaction. In addition to facilitating transport, the project seeks to restore ecological balance in the riverside environment through its careful planning. The implementation of pedestrian and cycling pathways reflects an intention to promote sustainable mobility while integrating seamlessly with the ecological context.
### Structural and Material Considerations
Characterized by a lightweight, elegant design, the bridge employs materials chosen for their sustainability and durability. The primary construction materials include steel for the structural framework, recycled components to minimize environmental impact, and sustainable timber for wooden decking, which enhances the user experience. Concrete serves as the foundation, providing necessary stability amid environmental forces. The inclusion of photovoltaic panels in the railings demonstrates a commitment to renewable energy, contributing to the functionality of the bridge by powering LED lighting for safety at night.
### Community and Aesthetic Integration
The bridge's design prioritizes inclusivity, offering dedicated lanes for cyclists alongside pedestrian paths to encourage alternative modes of transport, thereby reducing vehicular traffic. Its architectural language blends historical and contemporary elements of Ventimiglia, allowing for both aesthetic cohesion and distinctiveness within the landscape. The bridge serves not only as a passageway but also as a gathering point, promoting community resilience and engagement following the challenges posed by previous disasters.