Safdie Rabines Architects

Des Moines Union Railway Bridge

Des Moines Union Railway Bridge
© Max Kun Zhang

DES MOINES UNION RAILWAY BRIDGE

Safdie Rabines Architects

CATEGORY
Pedestrian Bridge

LOCATION
Des Moines, United States

AREA
385.0 m²

YEAR
2006

PHOTOGRAPHS
Max Kun Zhang

Text description provided by architect.

Safdie Rabines Architects' restoration and rehabilitation of this original 1800’s railway bridge provides a new scenic bicycle and pedestrian link over the Des Moines River.

Des Moines Union Railway Bridge
© Max Kun Zhang
Des Moines Union Railway Bridge
© Max Kun Zhang

The Des Moines Union Railway Bridge anchors the south end of the Des Moines’ Principal Riverwalk, which connects the east and west sides of downtown through a series of lighted and landscaped walking paths and bridges.

Further description and drawing after the break.

The Riverwalk’s design ties together numerous amenities that line the river’s banks, creating one cohesive riverfront experience. Glass guardrails and indirect lighting minimize visual additions to the bridge in order to preserve the beauty and integrity of the original structure.

Des Moines Union Railway Bridge
© Max Kun Zhang
Des Moines Union Railway Bridge
© Max Kun Zhang

A new cantilever at the center of the bridge allows travelers to stop and enjoy the views midstream and partake in the age old Des Moines custom of fishing.


Des Moines Union Railway Bridge
Elevation

Des Moines Union Railway Bridge
Plan

Safdie Rabines Architects
T +1 619 2976153 F +1 619 2996072
Safdie Rabines Architects
925 Fort Stockton Dr, San Diego, CA 92103, United States