Passerelle Nelson Mandela, Bicycle and pedestrian bridge in La Rochelle, France.
Passerelle Nelson Mandela is a pedestrian and bicycle bridge made of steel and concrete that spans 300 meters across the water. Its asymmetrical design features a main span of 90 meters supported by a single pylon rising from the water, creating a distinctive profile.
The bridge was developed during the 2010s to improve connections between different neighborhoods that were previously difficult to cross. Its completion marked an important shift in how the city links its communities together.
The bridge carries Nelson Mandela's name and links different neighborhoods while representing values of connection and openness in daily urban life. Walkers and cyclists pass through a space that reflects these ideals as they cross between previously isolated communities.
The bridge is designed with accessibility in mind and features gentle slopes suitable for people with different mobility needs. Walkers and cyclists benefit from good sightlines across the water, especially during daylight hours.
A single 28-meter pylon rises from the water and creates a striking shape that aligns with the tree lines around it. This slender support becomes an instantly recognizable landmark when viewed from different parts of the city.
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