Western Rapid Diameter, Toll highway in Saint Petersburg, Russia
The Western Rapid Diameter is a toll highway in Saint Petersburg that stretches more than 69 kilometers across the city, linking multiple neighborhoods through elevated roadways and bridges. The route crosses residential areas, industrial zones, and several waterways, with tall pylons and steel frameworks supporting long spans.
Planning for the route began in the late 1990s, but construction only started in 2008 after years of debate about funding and environmental effects. The first sections opened in 2016, and the final portion was completed three years later.
Drivers passing through see industrial zones, residential neighborhoods, and waterfront areas that reveal how the city has grown outward from the historic core. The bridges incorporate curved forms and cable designs that echo older structures across the Neva without copying them directly.
Electronic toll systems detect vehicles automatically, so drivers need to set up an account or pay online in advance to avoid extra fees. The route works well for transit journeys and trips between outer districts, while routes through the city center often face heavier congestion.
The bridge over the Sea Channel rises to 52 meters (170 feet), making it the tallest bridge in the city. Its double-deck design allows ship traffic to pass underneath without any need for movable spans, unlike older bridges in the area.
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