Footbridges in the functional adaptation of bridges and viaducts

In Italy there exists a particular type of footbridge, which fulfils the need for functional adjustment of existing bridges according to the new normative. The functional fitting of a bridge or viaduct consists normally on an enlargement of the deck by means of some structural elements which have to be consistent with the aesthetics of the existing bridge and which have to take into account the fact that vehicles and cycles-pedestrians cross it at different speeds.

The following studies and projects represent a new way of interpreting the existing structure through its historical value : if the architectural importance is low, then the intervention could consider the possibility of re-designing the bridge in terms of formal aspects and appearance. For more ancient or valuable bridges there are some constrictions of intervention which consider the historical importance of the structure.

The footbridge, built aside of the existing bridge, indicates a way of qualifying in a detailed way the whole infrastructural net of Italy.