SINGAPORE: A landmark bridge to be built to link the Bayfront
area in Marina South to Marina Centre will cost $68 million.
And a walk along the new vehicular and pedestrian bridge will
likely to be one to remember as it promises spectacular views and a
structurally innovative design.
There is also a new lighting master plan which will light up not
just the bridge but the whole city skyline to create a whole new
image for Singapore.
Yet to be named, the 280-metre bridge scores a world's first in
architecture and engineering design featuring a "double-helix"
structure.
The two spiralling steel forms resemble the DNA structure,
symbolising life and continuity.
Sitting next to the Benjamin Sheares Bridge, it integrates a
six-lane road and a six-metre wide curved pedestrian link with
viewing platforms.
The Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) says the construction cost
for both the vehicular and pedestrian connections is estimated to
be around S$68m.
Work on the bridge will start around end 2006 and it is targeted
for completion around 2009.
A competition will be held for students to suggest ideas for
artwork to be featured on the new bridge.
A total of eight winning ideas will be selected, and these youths
will be paired with recognised local artists to develop their
ideas.
Come 2009, the bridge will complete a walking route bringing the
visitors to major attractions around the Bay.
These include the future Singapore Flyer, the integrated resort,
new gardens and the business and financial centre, which will be
ready before 2010.
The bridge will also offer a sweeping view of the city skyline and
events taking place at the Bay.
The URA is also making sure the area looks stunning by night.
Speaking in Parliament, National Development Minister Mah Bow Tan
said: "The new bridge will not be the only structure lit up at
night; URA has developed a lighting master plan to guide new
developments and existing buildings within the central business
district and Marina Bay.
"We plan to enhance Singapore's city skyline by highlighting unique
architectural features of prominent buildings, greenery and
waterscape. URA is looking into measures to persuade owners to
provide such lighting."
Other bright sparks to jazz up the Marina area will include a
Landscape Master Plan with unique planting schemes and colour
themes to guide the planting of tress and shrubs along key streets
and boulevards.
- CNA /ls
