The West End Pedestrian Bridge Competition called for the design of a complimentary structure that would improve the pedestrian connection between the two ends of the existing West End Bridge. This design optimizes the qualities of the existing structure, both visually and structurally, providing an instrument of movement, recreation, and urban vitality that reclaims a prime example of Pittsburgh’s automobile infrastructure for pedestrian use. Formally conceived of as a braid suspended beneath the arch, the pedestrian bridge intertwines multiple strands which gently undulate horizontally and vertically to flexibly address the wide-ranging existing conditions: 1) a fast lane, nicknamed the "raceway" encouraging the fluid, dynamic movement of running, cycling, rollerblading 2) a slower lane, called the "platform" encouraging sitting, stopping, gazing and 3) fully accessible connector lanes, called the "split ends" splaying to link the bridge to varied neighborhood paths and topographical heights, eliminating the need for stairs or elevator towers. The bridge connects to open spaces designed as art-parks featuring varied program zones and native vegetation.
Video by Spirit Of Space
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