Desire versus Need: Two Bridges, Two Worlds

Bridges and footbridges in particular provide a solution to a relatively simple engineering problem. Although the need to overcome obstacles is universal, the factors shaping the design of the solution may well be radically different. This paper contrasts the development of two footbridges and how engineers are influenced by the specific constraints of a project when developing a solution to cross an obstacle.

The two schemes are linked by one of the authors of this paper who has been working on the feasibility and options development of the footbridges almost in parallel, one in her capacity as a paid professional and the other in her spare time as a volunteer. Although the project parameters are considerably different due tosite locations, client priorities, available funds, construction materials and design and construction capabilities, they both provide equal measures of frustration and fulfilment, albeit in many different ways.

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