The ‘Urban Artery’ project for Jiaxing City is a visionary bridge system designed to address the modern urban demands of connectivity between the city and the scenic South Lake. Spanning a complex site, which includes the Grand Canal, a high-speed railway, and a vehicular road, this contemporary marvel embodies both functionality and elegance.
Our foremost concern is providing a safe and tranquil environment for pedestrians travelling to South Lake. The bridge establishes seamless connections with the surrounding network of footpaths, creating a landscaped trail along the Grand Canal. Acting as the pinnacle of the cultural axis, the ‘Urban Artery’ also links the riverbank trail, the ferry on the northeast of the South Lake, and the iconic Haogu pagoda on the northwest.
The design philosophy extends to embrace the natural charm of the riverbank footpath. A shallow slope and lush lateral planting mirror the riverside ambiance, ensuring a smooth transition to the bridge, accessible to all, including wheelchair and baby pram users.
As pedestrians embark on the crossing, they are greeted with a new level of experience. The absence of visible lateral handrails provides uninterrupted panoramic views, offering glimpses of the enchanting Haogu Pagoda and other architectural gems of Jiaxing, all framed by the breathtaking expanse of South Lake.
We have designed two wide platforms at 10 meters in height on each side of the Grand Canal, providing inviting viewpoints. Furnished with comfortable benches, these areas offer visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the scenic splendour.
Lush and fuzzy plants, carefully selected from local species, adorn the bridge, adding a subtle pastel touch. With colours ranging from light pink to white and yellow, these plants harmoniously blend aesthetics with functionality. Strategically distributed in various heights, they control noise and sightlines, ensuring a secure and peaceful environment for all users.
Innovative engineering drives the bridge’s construction, minimizing the use of columns and maximizing beam spans. Truss structures elegantly span the Grand Canal, leaving this historic waterway unaffected by any engineering intrusions.
The ‘Urban Artery’ project is not only a marvel of design and engineering but also a catalyst for economic growth in Jiaxing City. By bridging the cultural axis to the leisure areas and historic landmarks of South Lake, it attracts tourism and breathes new life into the city. Furthermore, the bridge itself becomes a destination, offering unparalleled vistas of the cityscape, Grand Canal, and South Lake. Embodying the spirit of ecological sustainability, it stands as a symbol of Jiaxing’s commitment to promoting biodiversity and embracing its natural beauty.
