Wuchazi Bridge 五岔子步行骑行橋

The bridge is intended to create an appealing car-free pathway over the Fu Hé River, which winds from north to south through Chengdu. As it is fed by several tributaries, the river widens to approximately 100m in southern Chengdu, where the Wuchazi Bridge is situated. Alongside the Kehua South Road, which parallels the river, both structures pose as a broad barrier between the adjacent districts. By conceptualizing the bridge as a three-dimensional landscape element, rather than a mere connection from point A to B, it serves as an extension of the cityscape, alleviating the barrier effect. The bridge is designed to offer a high-quality recreational area for the city, providing a space for leisure and enjoyment.

Situated in a prominent location near the Century City New International Conference & Exhibition Center (CCNICEC) in the Wuhou district, the bridge connects extensive residential areas with mixed-use districts. Given its strategically significant position in the infrastructure, the bridge serves as a symbol for a transformation in transportation. Reserved exclusively for environmentally friendly modes of transport such as bicycles or E-bikes, as well as pedestrian traffic, it provides strong incentives for sustainable mobility.

While the nearby bridges designed for car traffic feature vertical elements and cable structures, the Wuchazi Bridge stands out with its horizontal gesture, forming a diverse undulating landscape of valleys and peaks. With a direct route and a total length of approximately 240m, the bridge offers two main paths for crossing. Together, these paths create a figure-eight shape symbolizing infinity.

The evolving geometry of the bridge, constantly changing, is inspired by the Möbius strip—a continuous surface with only one side and one boundary, forming an endless loop. This mathematically describable structure serves as the foundation for the main conceptual, functional, and structural principles of the bridge.

The upper direct route facilitates swift, barrier-free movement for pedestrians and cyclists connecting the opposing districts on either side of the river. This route features a half-sided roof that establishes a cozy, partially enclosed space. This design directs views down the river and filters the perception of downtown when heading north. The space beneath the roof is designated for leisurely activities, offering seating areas surrounded by potted plants that can be implemented and rearranged seasonally.

The second route forms a landscape that winds around the direct path on various levels, descending toward the water’s surface and ascending again. This design generates a diverse range of viewpoints, allowing observers to appreciate both the river and the city surroundings. It captures the walker’s focus on the present moment, emphasizing “being here, now,” and pays homage to the tradition of Zig Zag bridges, commonly found in Asian gardens. A key feature is the seating landscape facing south near water level, providing a delightful space for gathering and relaxation.

Both routes are interconnected with shortcuts, offering people multiple options for crossing the bridge, with plenty of opportunities to rest and enjoy panoramic views of the city and riverscape. The diverse routes, including sections with inclinations, make the Wuchazi Bridge an intriguing option as a sports ground. It could serve as a running track with varying degrees of difficulty, featuring stairs, slopes, and horizontal passages for a well-rounded training experience.

STRUCTURE

The upper direct route is designed as a 240m long shallow arc, supported at reasonable intervals to reduce the span and enable an overall slim construction. The primary load-bearing structure forms a V-shaped element emerging from the arc above, extending into the route below. This intersection of both routes is the projected focal point where the main loads are concentrated.

The undulating route consists of two arcs, offering minimal spans while ensuring an ideal distribution of forces. The seating landscape is naturally spanned between these arcs. This results in a synchronized structure that maximizes slimness and material efficiency.