Anthony Fokkerweg

Timber Touring

The new bicycle bridge in the green wedge in the north of Eindhoven connects the cycle route over the Anthony Fokkerweg intersection, while at the same time ensuring the continuity of Eindhoven's ‘Green Corridor’ route: a well-established line of greenery in the landscape. Therefore, one of the design decisions was to raise Oirschotsedijk, on which the bridge runs, to allow uninterrupted passage over Anthony Fokkerweg. This has resulted in a unique wooden crossing which is more than a bridge; the design adds to the experience and perception of cyclists and pedestrians along the Green Corridor as well as that of motor-vehicle and road users heading towards Eindhoven. Driving freely under the new bridge they will have the sense of crossing an historical line, given that the monumental avenue of oaks is to be extended along the new bridge.

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Info
Team
Collaborators

Client

Gemeente Eindhoven

Type

Bicycle and pedestrian Bridge

Location

Eindhoven – Anthony Fokkerweg / Oirschotsedijk, NL

Span

150 meters (length)

Bart Reuser, Marijn Schenk, Michel Schreinemachers, Maarten van der Burg, Wenda Andryani

Miebach ingenieurbüro

Exploring the Continuity of the Green Corridor

The character of the new bridge is closely linked to the line traced by Oirschotsedijk through the landscape. Whereas that landscape has changed over the years, the vision for the new bridge focuses on restoring this historical route; one long axis crossing a variety of landscape typologies and accompanied by rows of trees. The new bridge lifts cyclists and pedestrians gradually over Anthony Fokkerweg, thereby embodying an important link in the ecological chain: “cycling among the trees”.

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Connecting Infrastructure with Flora and Fauna

To integrate the bridge design into the surroundings, the historic row of trees is continued along the bridge. Consideration is given to the existing trees, and an environment is created in which flora and fauna can thrive. It is this interplay of vegetation and bridge design that lends continuity to the Green Corridor. The elegant shape of the structure aligns with nature and directs the gaze inward to rest on the axis of the Green Corridor.

Besides the positive effect that this has on the perception of the environment, it creates an important route for bats. Where the distance between the trees is greater, the bridge serves as an additional connecting piece between the flight routes of the bats, thus providing valuable support for the preservation of bat populations. The habitats of other animal species present are also supported, enhancing the liveability and biodiversity of the area.

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Creating Minimal Impact

landscape. The raised railings at the intersection with the busy Anthony Fokkerweg are there to direct the gaze inward. The use of bio-based materials and an outline that blends seamlessly with the rows of trees allow motorists to experience the historic Green Corridor as they cross it. The contemporary design of the bridge creates dramatic shadows and refines its appearance from the road.

The use of wood for the main load-bearing structure satisfies the wish for design circularity; the CO₂ remains stored. Also, the quantity of material is minimized by keeping piers, columns and foundations as simple as possible.