BEAUTY AND THE BRIDGE

Although a bridge is intended to be functional, it could also stand as a piece of art and as a symbol of its community. The task of art is an integral part of the bridge design process. A rule of thumb is to spend about 5 % of the cost on the aesthetic aspects of the structure, but beauty may not even cost as much. The challenge of designing the everday bridge is discussed, and it is pointed out that a bridge must be compatible with its surroundings. When a bridge is well designed, it seems to nestle into its surroundings. An example of such a structure is the Linn Cove Viaduct in North Carolina. Highlights of the design and construction of this bridge are described. A number of United Sates bridges that were recently built and whose design stretches from graceful to dynamic, even majestic, are noted: Bennett Bay Centennial Bridge; Sunshine Skyway; Roosevelt Lake Bridge; and Dame Point Bridge.