Pont Jacques-Chaban-Delmas, Vertical-lift bridge in Bordeaux, France
The Pont Jacques-Chaban-Delmas is a vertical-lift bridge in Bordeaux that spans 575 meters across the Garonne. The central roadway rises to 77 meters when raised, allowing tall ships to pass below.
The architect Charles Lavigne designed this crossing, which opened in March 2013. It became the fifth road bridge over the river in the city.
The four concrete towers define the skyline along the right bank near Bacalan. The lifting section opens when large ships need to travel through this part of the river.
The crossing has dedicated lanes for vehicles along with separate paths for pedestrians and cyclists. You can get a good view from the riverbanks near Bacalan or Chartrons.
The metal central section weighs 2,600 tons (2,360 metric tons) and is lifted by counterweights of 600 tons (545 metric tons) each. The entire system uses pulleys running through the four towers.
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