The City of Calgary, Canada, in order to provide its citizens with an environmentally and health friendly transportation option, commissioned the renowned Valencian architect, Santiago Calatrava, to design a bicycle and foot bridge to span the river Bow at a point which links the urban city centre with Peace Park.

The red and white single span helical bridge was designed and built in accordance with the building restrictions of the city and proximity to a heliport. In addition, no supporting piers were placed on the riverbed in order to minimize environmental damage. Hence, the familiar soaring shapes of Calatrava’s designs are not to be seen here. The tubular steel construction with its glass panels to protect the users from the harsh winter of Calgary, provides a central bicycle lane with a raised pedestrian walkway on either side. At night the bridge is markedly visible with its linear lighting, integrated within the structure.

Inspiration for the design arose from the immediate environment and the red and white is also to be seen on the Flag of Canada and the Flag of Calgary. The architect states “Although the design concept for the Peace bridge is very challenging, it is one I am very proud of.”