SHoP's Downtown Pedestrian Bridge

July 6, 10:07 AMNY Architecture ExaminerMurrye Bernard

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   Rendering by SHoP Architects of proposed pedestrian bridge.

Since the September 11 attacks, a temporary bridge structure has been in place, crossing West Street and connecting Battery Park City with the Financial District. Finally, a permanent design has been proposed by SHoP Architects for a 200-foot long bridge that, according to The Tribeca Trib, resembles "a strand of DNA turned on its side."

Describes as a "lenticular truss," the open air, wood and metal bridge design has rounded steel beams that overlap the faces of the structure.  Some have taken issue with its lack of protection from the elements, but designers argue for the bridge's openness because it connects two parks.

The design was presented to Community Board 1 last month, but faces a second formal approval by CB1 along with a variety of other city agencies before it can move forward.  The Battery Park City Authority, which is funding the project, hopes to complete construction by 2010.