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| Bridging a gap in Copenhagen's cycle lane network  The initial construction work will shortly commence on a new bridge across the Port of Copenhagen that will improve the city's cycle lane network and provide an interesting experience for cyclists.Copenhagen's new, elevated cycle lane, which is known as 'Cykelslangen' – The bicycle tube – will constitute the important missing link between Fisketorvet and Havneholmen on the other. The cycle track will be suspended five metres above pedestrians walking on the street and quay and up to seven meters over sea level above water. This winter, the foundations for the bridge will be built and the completion is scheduled for summer 2013. The new structure will connect Copenhagen's Vesterbro and Islands Brygge districts and thereby provide an alternative route for the many cyclists that currently use Bryggebroen daily as a gateway to the island of Amager. The Municipality of Copenhagen is leading the project and Ramboll, one of Denmark's largest engineering consultancies, is sub-consultant to the architectural practice Dissing+Weitling. The missing link "This bridge is the missing link between Dybbølsbro and Bryggebroen and will be a welcome improvement for cyclists. Today, people have to carry their bicycles up and down the stairs north of Fisketorvet. The bridge will create a new short cut for cyclists crossing the Port of Copenhagen and its winding route across the water will make the ride an experience in itself, " says Christian Wulf-Andersen, project manager at Ramboll. Limited space According to Christian Wulf-Andersen one of the most challenging tasks will be to install the 190 metres long bridge since it will be mounted in several sections. "The bridge deck and the pillars will be welded together on site to ensure that they are erected correctly and will match the foundations and abutments. It will be a challenge to carry out the work within the very limited space available in the area near Fisketorvet, as the quay also serves as an escape and fire access route, " says Christian Wulf-Andersen. 'Cykelslangen' forms part of Copenhagen's strategy of becoming one of the world's most bicycle-friendly cities. The primary objectives of the strategy are that 50% of all trips to work and school will be by bicycle by 2015, the travel time used by cyclists will be reduced by 15% by 2025, and 90% of Copenhagen's cyclists will feel safe in traffic by 2025. Facts about Cykelslangen The bridge is four metres wide and 190 metres long – and has a ramp of 30 metres. To achieve a light and slender construction, the bridge will be made out of steel. The first foundations for the bridge, which will be placed both on land and at sea, will be constructed on site during winter. The Copenhagen Harbour Bath has been temporarily relocated and will return near to its previous location, taken in account the pillars supporting the bridge. write your comments about the article :: © 2012 Construction News :: home page |