New DeFazio Bike Bridge Uses Unique Design to Meet Community Goals

New Search

s • ~ The de ign also required that the bridge be of appropriate size and scale, stand as a landmark with is own identity, include structural elements which clearly express the progress of ~ science and to hnology, minimize tree removal in Alton Baker Park on the north end of the structure, and rovide waysides and observation platforms for public use. All those requirements ere met in the final design that went to construction in summer 1997. OBEC versaw construction of the 592-foot-long bridge, a lengthy and complex process ' that City Proje t Liaison Tom Larsen likened to "stringing 44 beads on a wire, where each bead weighs almost 15 tons and the wire is high-tension steel cable draped over two 66-foot-high towers." Con truction went smoothly, the job was completed within budget, and the bridge was dedicated in ay 2000. "Including a separate bicycle and pedestrian access route was seen from the beginning ' as integral to onoring the needs of all bridge users," said U.S. Rep. Peter DeFazio, who helped secur $23.7 million for the corridor project through the Intermodal Surface i Transportatio Efficiency Act. "I am proud to be associated with this project, and I'm especially I honored that t e new bike bridge will bear my name." i j In add tion to a safe and attractive river crossing for non-motorized traffic, the new bridge also c nnects to Eugene's 12-mile-long riverside bicycle path system. In addition, the bridge ties int OBEC-designed undercrossings and spacious sidewalks included in the larger corridor enha cement project. ~ Now c mpleted, the Peter DeFazio Bridge provides easy access to the downtown for shoppers and bicycle commuters, a gateway to Eugene's largest park, natural connections to jogging and n ture trails along the river, and an easy alternative route for the tens of thousands i of football fan who attend games at the University of Oregon's nearby Autzen Stadium. ~