An Innovative Signature Bridge

to celebrate

TECHNICAL SOLUTIONS
Rendering of bridge
cross section from the
THE VISION
pedestrian’s perspective
Every bridge has a story. It begins with a vision. A vision A full 30’ width
that reflects the beauty of the community’s sense of place.
A bridge tells the story of the technology of its time and
respects the natural and built environment in a holistic
design. The features of FIU’s New Pedestrian Bridge are
a tribute to these principles. The values and vision for the
new bridge has been described with words like: Signature,
Innovative, Contemporary, Iconic, Outstanding, Landmark,
Event Venue, Linear Park, and a Place to Linger and Gather.

THE DESIGN APPROACH

From this vision a theme came to life as a unifying
connection between the new bridge, the FIU campus, and
the Miami community – A Bridge Worth Walking. This
design approach is inspired by the values and vision of FIU
and this theme. Archetypal design principles of blending
shapes, creating shadows, selecting textures, choosing
pleasing colors, opening new vistas, using native materials,
creating feature lighting and incorporating landscaping
were combined to create a bridge that celebrates and is
inspired by FIU. Design and construction inspiration came
from FIU’s innovative research and technology, educational
excellence, and commitment to sustainability.

Technical Solutions | 1
 Accelerated Bridge Construction (ABC) techniques will be Contemporary iconic cable The stay cable pipes increase The functional shape of
used to build the main span in one night. This will showcase structure provides an aesthetic bridge stiffness for pedestrian the structure includes a
FIU’s national research center for ABC technologies. The gateway attracting people to enjoy loads. Powder coated white pedestrian concrete canopy
main bridge will be constructed in an adjacent staging area a unique experience. The tapering for long term durability and 16’ wide providing shade to
and moved into place with a modular transporter. pylon reaches a height of 109’ feet. to maximize opportunities for 53% of the deck.
a variety of night time light
colors on stays.
The bridge shape allows for easy
accessibility to all areas for direct
South pedestrian overlook inspections. A low maintenance
(enhanced 717 sq. ft.) has bridge with innovation for over
a cantilevered canopy and 100 year life.
allows for direct future
connection to the Parking
Garage 4 and escalators. High performance concrete
throughout the bridge with fly ash
and silica fume admixtures creates
a dense low permeable mix design
for added strength and durability.

Bridge northside over

450 sq. ft. providing
enhanced staircase
connections and
gathering spaces.

The concrete deck is both

transversely and longitudinally
A bridge worth walking
post-tensioned with straight
tendons. The concrete truss ... in day or night
members and canopy will also be
compressed with high strength
steel cable and bars. Signature lighting at
The magnificent singular structural concrete
night with LED’s creates
shape of I-beam features this one of a kind
a dramatic icon.
open all elements with both structural
A full 30’ pathway width purpose and aesthetic form. The central
maximizes user opportunities. open truss provides bridge stiffness and also
A slender structure depth of just serves as unique spaces for art displays,
2’ brings the bridge elevation table and seating connections, hammock
closer to the landing areas and supports, vendor set-ups, gatherings and so
creates shorter elevators. much more.

AESTHETIC FEATURE OPTIONS FOR PAUSING (PAWS-ING )

Future amenities not included in the base bid
Coffee carts or vendor carts can be located on bridge
overlooks between trusses or in the plaza area.
LED lighting in
the cental canopy
highlight the
truss shapes and
Hammock provides safety
hooks between lighting for users
trusses to enjoy
the peaceful nature
Special seating areas for lingering
of the canal while
and gathering enhance user
resting on the bridge
experience throughout project
Technical Solutions | 2