Aesthetics
Building a Distinctive Reputation
Bridges Home > HPC > Concrete Advantages > Aesthetics
Acclaimed for their dynamic design, sleek styling and aesthetically
appealing presence, cable-stayed bridges are fast becoming "signature"
structures that play a vital role in urban development across the
country. Concrete not only offers exceptional functionality, but
also fosters innovation..
- Provides architectural distinction - Concrete's
adaptability to different shapes allows each bridge a unique appearance.
- Distinguishes the community - The striking addition
of a cable-stayed bridge enhances the landscape while spotlighting
the community it serves.
- Promotes economic development and tourism - Regions
with efficient transportation infrastructure attract new development.
High-Performance Profile: Sunshine
Skyway Bridge, Florida
Owner: Florida Department of Transportation
Engineer: Figg and Mueller Engineers, Inc.
Contractor: Paschen Contractors, Inc.
The Challenge: To create an aesthetically pleasing, strikingly modernistic cable-stayed bridge stretching 4.2 miles (6.8 km) across Tampa Bay.
The Project: Sunshine Skyway Bridge was built using 2600 precast elements and 180,000 cubic yards (137,620 cu m) of concrete. Featuring a 1200 ft (366 m) main span and 175 ft (53 m) vertical clearance, the bridge is expected to last for at least 75 years.
The Concrete Advantage: Praised by the New York Times as "the most impressive piece of large-scale bridge design in this country in half a century," the structure was designed to withstand 250 mph (402 km/h) hurricane force winds and a potential ship impact of 12 million pounds (53.4 MN) on the two main piers.
The Result: When completed in 1987, the bridge was honored with 15 design awards and set a new record as the longest concrete cable-stayed span in the U.S. In 1996, Florida Department of Transportation conducted a 10-year inspection and found the bridge in excellent condition. |