Bolshoy Petrovsky Bridge, Bascule bridge in Saint Petersburg, Russia
The Bolshoy Petrovsky Bridge crosses the Malaya Nevka to connect Petrovsky Island and Krestovsky Island, featuring four vehicle lanes alongside separate paths for pedestrians and bicycles. The structure is designed as a bascule bridge, meaning its main section can lift to allow larger vessels to pass through.
A wooden drawbridge was first built at this location in 1838, with guard structures for soldiers stationed nearby. After serving the city for over a century, the structure was eventually replaced by a modern metal version that was comprehensively renovated in 2010.
The bridge connects two islands in the northern part of the city and serves as a daily crossing point for local residents traveling between different neighborhoods. It forms part of the urban network that keeps the city's island communities linked together.
The bridge is straightforward to cross on foot or by bike, with clearly separated pathways that keep pedestrian and bicycle traffic away from vehicle lanes. The wide walkways provide good visibility and direct routes across the span, though crowds can build up during morning and evening commute times.
In December 1993, ice movements in the Malaya Nevka caused severe damage to the structure, completely destroying two support pillars. This disaster led to changes in how the city designed and maintained its river crossings in cold climates.
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