Peace Bridge | Santiago Calatrava LLC

A number of items still need to be completed including work on the approach areas at both ends of the bridge, temporary grading and temporary pathway work. Final commissioning and tests on components such as electrical, lighting and security cameras must also be completed. Graham Construction has also started removing materials from its worksite on the south bank of the river in preparation for the opening. The 850-metric-tonne steel structure was moved across the Bow River over several days in late November. Using hydraulics, Graham Construction slowly pushed the Peace Bridge across the temporary bridge structure along a rail system. Once across the river, the 130-metre long bridge was moved sideways and lowered onto permanent abutments in December. The permanent location for the bridge is east, or downriver, of the temporary bridge. Nestled between the banks of the Bow, just west of Prince's Island Park, the Peace Bridge is being built to accommodate the increasing number of people commuting to and from work and those who simply want to enjoy Calgary's pathways. This unique structure will connect the Eau Claire area and Hillhurst-Sunnyside, carrying thousands of Calgarians each day. Calgary's downtown is home to over 30,000 residents along with 120,000 employees. This area continues to grow as 40,000 new residents and over 60,000 additional employees are expected in the downtown area by 2035. With more people choosing to live and work in the core and surrounding areas, there will be more people travelling by foot, bicycle, or in-line skates in and out of the city centre. In September 2008, Calgary City Council approved the construction of a pedestrian bridge over the Bow River west of Prince's Island Park. The location of the bridge is designed to create a convenient link for users of Calgary's pathway system and pedestrians wishing to travel between the Sunnyside LRT Station and central downtown destinations. This bridge design addresses safety and comfort for users by offering: • A 6.2-metre wide pathway, double the width of other pedestrian bridges in the area. • A clear separation between pedestrian and bicycle/wheel traffic for safety. • Canopy-style glazed roof supports year round use while maintaining natural light. • Lighting for night time use. Spring 2010 – off-site steel fabrication, construction site preparation. Fall 2010 – modular steel components arrive on-site, assembly of the bridge steel and components begins. November 2011 – bridge structure is moved across the Bow River to its final location. March 24, 2012 – completion of project and opening of the bridge.