“La Cava” footbridge is a perfect example of the lattice bridges structural typology, with its curved web and variable width. It is the result of the natural evolution from the Arenas-Moneo collaboration-team for the “Bridge Pavilion Competition”.
Spanning 61m, with a fixed-hinged main element, allows the pedestrians sweep across the city’s ring-road. The lattice, materialized with transverse “gothic” arcs link top and bottom longitudinal chords, has a slightly variable web, growing in its approximation to the anchored side, where an initial triangular metallic cell rest on the inclined concrete frame of the pile, which discomposes the forces and guide them to the foundations. The other end acts as threshold to a more open space.
The combination between the glazed skin and the curved lattice not only generates interesting sensations along the bridge crossing, but also protects from the adverse weather and the traffic buzz.
The access elements are designed with different solutions. On the North Side the access is made through two meandering ramps with slopes between the 6 and the 9%, made with a concrete slab over asymmetrical steel piers associated to lighting elements. On plan, the curved outline creates a fluent and organic access, which respects the existing trees in the park. The South Side is resolved with a new artificial hill, with ramps and stairs. In conclusion, this footbridge creates a new urban space which fits with its surroundings and fulfils its mission of connecting both sides of the road-ring becoming an iconic gate for the city of Logroño.
Owner: Ayuntamiento de Logroño
Project: Arenas & Asociados
Total length: 75.6 m. Deck width: 3.8 - 7 m. Main span: 61 m
Contractor: Ferrovial
Arenas & Asociados’ Role: Complete project developer
