A single continuous undulating ribbon of
steel forms the primary structure of the bridge. It wraps around and over the
bridge deck forming two 100-metre triangulated arch forms, while providing
support for the road deck as it crosses the 300-metre wide canal opening, This
design, reflected in the water, takes on the shape of the figure "8",
a sign of prosperity in the Chinese culture. Viewed from the Zhuhai shoreline,
the Shizimen Bridge looks like it is floating above the Pearl River Delta.
A single pier separates the bridge into two
spans, supported by a primary and secondary arch form. The primary arch crosses
the road deck diagonally as it sails above the longest clear span of some 200
metres. The smaller span supports the waterside edge of the road deck and the
pedestrian walkway as it cantilevers out over the receding shore line, as the
water way reduces dramatically across the width of the bridge as it moves from
marina to canal.
The minor arch of the bridge acts as a
gateway for the pedestrian boardwalk, while the marina park continues below the
road deck and links to the canal side park. With three lanes of traffic in each
direction of the bridge, the pedestrian and cycle paths allow users to travel
freely on either side of the bridge. The wider pathway towards the north looks
out over the Pearl River Delta towards the mainland- There is a platform midway
across the bridge which offers a rest point and viewing area, overlooking the
three tallest structures in the region, namely the St Regis tower on the
mainland to the north, the new Shizimen tower and the Macau tower. Cantilevered
off the concrete road deck at a lower level, both the pedestrian and cycle
paths provide an open view, away from vehicular traffic, while at the same time
creating a visual and sound barrier away from the roads.
Building materials will include stiffened
steel plates, which are used in the construction of the arches. Its high
strength to weight ratio and ability to form the complex geometry required of
the cross section makes it the ideal material of choice. A collaborative work
by 10 Design and Buro Happold that won the design competition for the signature
bridge for the new Shizimen Business District in Zhuhai. this bridge will be
the gateway to South China's new planned commercial hub and marks the
connection of the Shizimen Canal to the Pearl River Delta.
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