In the open architectural competition, Arkitema proposed the bridge's geometry to be based on an arc that enables a clear traffic situation and minimises the impact on protected wetland areas. The construction has a clear sculptural form with a distinct identity. Important components of the supporting structure are made of wood, which reflects the local history with the wood industry and log driving the Nitelva River.
Skjærvagapet Bridge
A landmark by the Nitelva River in Lillestrøm
Lillestrøm Municipality is seeking to build a new pedestrian and bicycle bridge that visually and traffic-wise connects the city centre with a new transformation area with schools, sports facilities and housing. The bridge will stand as a clear architectural landmark and form part of a scenic wetland area with flood banks, hiking paths and marina.
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- Lillestrøm Municipality
- Client
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- COWI AS
- Engineer
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- Location
- Lillestrøm
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- Year
- 2021
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- Size
- 160 meters
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- Architect
- Arkitema
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- Landscape
- Arkitema
The bridge has a total length of 160 meters. A central foundation is placed in the middle of the Skjærvagapet Bay and from there a cable-stayed bridge with a span of 40 meters on each side is built. Onward, the bridge continues in each direction as a continuous beam bridge with three spans measuring 20 meters.
An important goal of the project is to minimise the environmental impact.
A hybrid construction of concrete, steel and wood makes the bridge light and slim. It almost floats above the water and the protected wetland area. The superstructure consists of main beams and crossbeams of steel and a bridge deck of glued laminated timber elements. The deck is made of asphalt. The columns and deck of solid wood reflect the long tradition of transporting and processing wood in the Nitelva Watercourse. The substructure has abutments and pillars of concrete that are pile-founded to rock.
The railing is a light construction of steel frames with mesh of thin wire and handrail of wood. It gives texture to the component with which users interact the most. The railing has small spotlights that illuminate the bridge without shining significantly over the edge, so that the surroundings are spared from light pollution.
An important goal of the project is to minimise the environmental impact. Therefore, the bridge crosses the nature conservation area without encroaching on the nature during the construction phase and in its permanent state. The use of materials with low-carbon concrete and solid wood offers a favourable CO₂ account for the bridge.
The project was carried out in close collaboration with bridge engineers at COWI AS.
