Waldschlößchen

a new bridge in Dresden Dresden INTRODUCTION: Why this intervention, the UNESCO Heritage site in Dresden, the present project of a bridge at the Waldschlößchen and 5 basic guidelines to insure proper development of infrastructure, preservation of the site and the integrity of the Elbe river valley in Dresden.

PROJECT HIGHLIGHTS Why a covered bridge over the Elbe at Dresden? Features of this new SMART bridge and why is this new proposal better than the actual project.

GUIDELINES 1- to ease commuting woes 2- to reduce traffi c in the historic section of town 3- to provide better access to the Elbe valley parkland 4- to become in itself one of Dresden’s many attractions 5- to blend with the existing structures and general environment of the Elbe valley

CONCLUSION The Baroque question, can Dresden afford anything less? The cost of tradition and the tyranny of excellence. IntroductionDuring a recent trip to Dresden, I was told None of these points can be omitted, and all The Baroque look is a generally accepted that a new bridge was to be built over the of them have crucial importance. The ran- concept when it comes to Dresden, as a de- Elbe near the centre of town to help the city dom order in which they are presented here scriptive adjective or simply to evoke a glo- cope with the ever rising tide of motorists. I can be seen as an order of practicality that rious past. A bridge over the Elbe conceived was also made aware of the impact the deci- reflect efficiency and good planning... and in this fashion is not an anachronism more sion to build this bridge could have on the not an order of importance. than the rebuilding of the Frauenkirche is. status of the UNESCO world heritage site One is a much needed part of the modern funding for the Dresden area. I am convinced that the evolution of the city infrastructure, the other is a huge tribute to of Dresden will demand, sooner rather than the survival of a city, of a nation. This following text is the result of some re- later, that a new link be established between search I made on the Dresden bridge project the 2 shores of the Elbe. I believe that the In this respect, I believe that the construc- and its possible and most likely result on present efforts to give Dresden a chance to tion of a bridge at Waldschlößchen in the the area of the Elbe valley and is to accom- shine and to show the restoration of a proud Elbe Valley in Dresden must be done with as pany the images I have created to illustrate heritage must be accompanied by an equally much care to the site itself, as it must be un- my own vision of a new bridge crossing the great effort in the areas of transportation to derstood that such a venture is also directed Elbe in the vicinity of the old town of Dres- allow visitors and citizens alike to function at telling the story, the incredible journey, den, Germany. I have read many documents well in the space provided. that every soul in Dresden is part of. pertinent to the visual impact such a struc- ture would have on the Elbe valley. What The point of this text is to demonstrate that The only other alternative I would support follows is my interpretation of the context the evolution of the city of Dresden asks and welcome would be of the construc- in which a new bridge can be built. us to be flexible and to open our minds to tion of a tunnel that would be dogged un- new ideas... A bridge at Waldschlößchen has der both the river Elbe and it’s flood plain. In my view, in order to be successful, the been in the book for nearly a hundred years This would be a very expansive proposition Waldschlößchen bridge project has to fulfill and is a logic, and I believe, a very desirable but it would be the ultimate answer to this these five major objectives: project to give Dresden two very new great dilemma. On the other hand, I am to- attributes; one is a new structure permitting tally against the construction of the modern 1- to ease commuting woes traffic flow to be rerouted away from the bridge described in the Aachen University 2- to reduce traffic in the historic centre of town, second, to study, anywhere in the UNESCO world her- historic section of town gives Dresden a new attraction on itage section of Dresden. Such a structure 3- to provide better access to the the Elbe, away from downtown and simply doesn’t belong within the confine of Elbe valley parkland in this most enchanting of valley. such a district and would relieve only par- 4- to become in itself one of Dresden’s In time, it will become a focal point. People tially future traffic woes. many attractions will gather and become aware of the great 5- to blend with the existing structures and beauty surrounding them. All these points and more will be treated general environment of the Elbe valley further in this text. and it’s environment are compatible and well auf Dresden Deutschland” by Karl Friedrich considered extras for they provide the neces- matched. To built just another traffic-snarl- Schinkel shows this view of the city through sary elements that make the construction of ing bridge to create more noise and pollution the effect of a simulated optical device and no a bridge at Waldschlößchen possible while cannot be seen as an option and should there- one looking at it for the first time will notice the area’s integrity remain intact. The cost of fore not be considered, Dresden, right there in the middle. Suddenly, this bridge is the cost of doing it well, for the one can see the Frauenkirche and all of Dres- generation to come, and as a memorial to the Project Highlights Will the present proposal of a covered bridge den appears... such must be the new bridge at generations who made Dresden the vibrant in a baroque style cost the Dresden public Waldschlößchen if it is to be successful. Not place it is today. way more than the present project?... Will painted in gold, maybe in green and blues to What I propose is the construction of a much faster. A balance between traffic flow, so that driving through the Waldschlößchen the advantages to the infrastructure level blend with the surroundings. We will discuss double-decker six-lane below, tramway line pavement texture and other noise reduction bridge remains safe during the day under alone warrant so much more than just a ba- this again later in this text. above, covered bridge in the style of a Ba- features has to be achieved. cloud cover of sunshine, or at night. The lev- sic means to cross a river? Let examine this roque Castle much like the structures that els of light in the bridge must reflect their point... which in my opinion needs not to To answer the question of cost, only one exists at Großsedlitz. During my most recent Sound-proofing material will also be applied outside environment in order to prevent users be neglected. A Baroque six-lane highway solution exists. Bridging the Elbe at Wald- visit to Dresden, I visited these awesome to the wall and vault inside the structure on from not being able to see the road ahead of bridge is in itself a rather striking proposi- schlößchen is as serious as it is sensitive and Gardens and I am using the pictures I took both levels in order to keep motor traffic and them due to a too great difference in ambi- tion. With sidewalks, promenade, tramway the cost will be to ensure that the best possible there to illustrate what this ultra-modern tramway noise to a whisper. Proper insulation ent lighting conditions. Along with the side line and art gallery all in one, the new Wald- choices are made. Noise reduction, pollution “SMART” covered bridge will look like. between the two decks of the structure is im- curtain and this sophisticated lighting sys- schlößchenbedecktebrücke may well become levels, access to parkland and integrations to The lower level will also include indoor and perative to keep track noise down from the tem, the Waldschlößchen bridge will be able itself a sought after attraction of the modern the existing ensemble that constitute the Elbe outdoor galleries or walkways and cycle- tramway level as well. to produce an safe environment under almost Saxon capital. valley must all be taken in account. The tech- paths. The upper level will include an indoor every circumstances. Under high wind, the nology now exist to make this a “SMART” gallery as well where reproduction of art- This is why a covered bridge in the style pre- curtain should be able to protect the bridge With a background of rich residences, and bridge in a smart city so that the impact on works related to the landscape in and around sented here seems to present many solutions. users as well by deflecting part of the wind within range of one of the most amazing city the immediate environment is positive, logic Dresden will exposed throughout the year. It eliminates the needs for sound barriers by gusts to bearable strength. in Germany, the site of the Waldschlößchen and respectful of a legacy which speaks vol- having a thin woven vinyl mesh thick enough cannot be wasted or impoverished by a struc- ume of its resourcefulness. The savings made My proposal is to blend the need of a future to reduce noise but thin enough to let the air I propose a three-span bridge, covered... en- ture that doesn’t respect the vast historical by having to do less expansive ground work bridge with the notion of history. My goal is flow through the structure. This mesh will tirely! The present project has nine uncovered background of the area. A painting in the book will surely go a long way to provide material to show that a modern bridge can be built to also reduce the effect of rain and snow and spans, which will necessitate digging 10 sets of the exhibit “Der Blick Auf Dresden” I saw needed for the super-structure. The Baroque blend and harmonize with its surroundings. the roof will keep the roadway dry almost of foundations, versus six. That alone repre- myself in 2005 really struck me as the ulti- external skin, curtains, lighting, signals, ac- Large, wide covered bridges are not my in- permanently. From a distance, it will look like sent a huge saving of material, man-hour and mate goal for the present venture. “Fernblick cess to the park from the tram line cannot be vention. They allowed our civilization across windows... fitting attribute to any baroque energy. 11 sets of foundations for a four-lane the rivers of time to our epoch. In both Eu- castle I must ad! This fine vinyl mesh will highway bridge of 638m seems very waste- rope and America, covered bridges got us also dissimulate the vehicles travelling across ful. The Carola brücke built in 1965-66 of- where we are now. To build such a structure the Elbe behind a semi-opaque curtain, a fit- fers a better ratio and carries both trams and in Dresden up to modern standards and with ting state of affair as we want this to look less 4 lanes of motor traffic. The superstructure modern material would indeed be a first. Why like a bridge and more like a Baroque build- will have to be more considerable but the a covered bridge over the Elbe at Dresden? ing. This unique feature of the new Wald- impact on the flood-plain is reduced by half. schlößchen bridge will be placed on both And since care of the flood plain seemed to That a large volume of traffic crosses the sides along the length of the bridge. These me a major argument against the building of Elbe at Waldschlößchen could be seen as an light-weight mesh panels would be hung in a bridge at Waldschlößchen, I really have a intrusion into a rich and beautifully preserved two layers and would filter both the light and hard time understanding why the present environment. If the bridge is built as the pres- noise into the structure. Their texture would project got considered at all! ent project seems to point at, yes indeed, we provide constant airflow and discreetly shield have a few problems! The biggest objections motorists from the setting or rising sun. But It is my firm belief that this project could be against the construction of any new bridges in beside being light and noise reducing devices, made to fruition with only 3 spans, modern the Elbe valley seems to be a combination en- these curtains will also act as weather repel- bridge building technique and all... this is vironmental and developmental issues. Noise, lents to keep the roadway clear of too much NOT a bridge to Mars! The amounts of mon- pollution plus disturbing the flood plain of the rain ice and snow making this bridge safer to ey, energy, and time saved by having to dig river Elbe and the overall look of the valley all users. Although probably more complex and erect only 4 sets of foundations versus 10 are all factors that must be addressed for this to install than simple glass windows, the ex- will allow for a better, larger and more ver- project to be successful. Lets examine the haust gasses from motor vehicles will not be satile superstructure and will go a long way features of this new SMART bridge and see trapped in the bridge and cause discomforts in saving the Elbe floodplain simply by not why this new proposal is far better than the to the users. These curtains will also be much touching it more that we have to. This project actual project. lighter than windows on such a large building, cannot be one of half measures. Also having and will also be easier to clean, maintain and six lanes instead of four will reduce the time First, in order to keep the noise to a minimum, repair. of crossing, henceforth reducing pollution keeping it in an enclosed area seems logical. and noise from idling engines stuck in traf- We can devise a new system of noise reduc- The top part of the flat roof above the tram- fic. Six lanes also insure better flow in case tion devices capable of suppressing almost all way line will be covered with solar panels to of accidents. The bridge proposed now is a noises associated to traffic flow without hav- generate proper lighting inside and to feed a fine structure, for sure, but it does not address ing to resort to unsightly noise barriers. complete network of signals to keep the us- the needs of a very sensitive urban zone, it New advances in pavement composition have ers aware of both road conditions and traffic is too narrow, and damages the valley floor proven successful in reducing noise by 30 to flow. This new integrated system will also be by necessitating too much foundation work. 60 % depending on climate and traffic volume connected to the other traffic network system The Elbe valley is a crucial and vital part of expected. Pavement made of smaller particles of the region. It is very important that proper the public “health” of the greater-Dresden tend to be much quieter but also wears out lighting be set to match outside conditions area. We need to insure that both the structure To Ease Commuting Woes 1- and more people, like me, visiting Dresden. the south-east towards Pirna and the new A- in the city. This scenario alone demands that a A city the size of Dresden will always be north south or south to north will then be al- faced with choices. Some are easier than oth- lowed to move freely outside of the congested Time spent in a traffic jam is not more pleas- 17 to Prague. serious re-examination of the present project ers to make. Dresden has been looking to touristic area, and save large amount of time, ant in Paris, Toronto, Shanghai or Dresden. be made. To build only a four-lane modern bridge the Elbe at Waldschlößchen for many fuel and wit not having to breath-in the fumes Your city has one of the best transportation The opening of that very road will raise bridge with no tramway set-up and to build decades. The type of bridge to built here from the countless trucks and busses idling to system I have seen for a city that size. The drastically the flow of traffic coming from it in a fashion that takes no account whatso- seems to be a most serious matter for the har- no end in snarled “Bouchons” as the french new Waldschlößchen bridge can only add to the south into Saxony the likes of which... ever of what exists in this part of the city of monization of the city with it’s green space is call basic gridlock! the efficiency of the infrastructure by giving it The added stress on the existing infrastructure Dresden, goes against every effort made to at play here. The need and the logistic of the a new ultra-fast artery where the flow of mod- will most likely create more delays and more date, to preserve the integrity or to make good project are serious. To adapt an age old solu- Several features of my proposed bridge are ern life can reach destination safely and rap- frustration for the added capacity of the roads use of the Elbe river valley crossing at Wald- tion to the modern need of a city is nothing made to facilitate the Elbe crossing. First, idly. It will ad a crucial link between the area leading into the Dresden area will have to be schlößchen. new, specially in Germany. having six lane and an upper deck for tram- to the north near the airport with the areas to matched somehow by the infrastructure with- ways means an open roadway capable of han- The addition of a new bridge in Dresden dling a great number of vehicle on an daily means the city has grown. It also means that basis. Faster crossing time means better fuel the area has gone through an amazing period efficiency, less time on the road commuting of change since German reunification. But as and a nicer setting to do the commuting in. nothing is perfect, with the new era came new Another feature to make the commute more problems, out went the Trabis and in came a interesting would be a visual presentation of completely new “parc-automobile” the likes the history of the city of Dresden that would of which had never been seen on this side on be laid out in the walls of the tram line on the the iron-curtain. second level... there is enough material to be reproduced and exposed to fill a bridge long More cars, more tourism and more money, enough to reach Canada... This exhibit could Dresden has experience a rebirth that brought be changed and made to attract artist from all the world on it’s doorstep a little over 15 years over the world and here we are touching point after the fall of the Berlin wall. For all those #4 who work or live here, there has been a dras- tic augmentation of the number of vehicles The construction of this new bridge at Wald- transiting to, from or through Dresden. This schlößchen does not mean we are dumping means an increased flow of traffic the like of pollution and noise problems into the pristine which had also never been seen under soviet environment of the Elbe valley. The proximity influences. of the old town and of its snarled traffic is far more lethal a situation than a well paced, well Commuting can be costly. Time spend on the built and well thought of structure up-river. road to and from work is not very productive. To ease traffic flow in the core and balance To reduce this, is to be willing to examine new the through-traffic away from sensitive areas solutions capable of preventing all sorts of ills is the goal here. A tunnel would be the perfect that can plague a community. Car wrecks due solution... but it’s cost makes it rather impos- to impatience and lack of concentration im- sible to build. Since a bridge seems the only pede on commuting time and tempers soon solution, its qualities must give it the capacity flare. Overflowing trams can be dangerous to move and carry the traffic with a maximum as well and the demands on the operational of efficiency in a minimum of time, with the staff can also produce all sorts of problems least disturbance possible on the environment and accidents. All these nerve-wrecking situ- within the park land and within the heritage ations impacts a population, reduce efficiency that constitute the Elbe valley itself. in the work place, raises tension and end-up costing us dearly in lost wages, wasted fuels, Some studies have shown a decrease in vehic- skyrocketing insurance premiums and frayed ular traffic in some areas of the greater Dres- nerves. den. Some areas have shown a rise in that same activity. Pros and con will argue this The construction of this new bridge at Wald- until judgement day... but in the meantime, schlößchen must be done in such a fashion as Dresden is growing and will soon reach its to help reduce commuting time in and out of pre-war population levels. This means many the downtown core by removing traffic that more cars and trucks. This also means more has no business there. Traffic crossing town citizens looking for access to the parkland To Reduce Traffic in the Old Town 2- Less traffic in the historic district of Dresden Dresden here has a wonderful opportunity to structure will be seen one day from the top will have three huge advantages. enrich itself of an element that will provide of the Frauenkirche... and for this, and for its infrastructure with a unique landmark. A the people of Dresden, it must be a totally 1- It will be easier for the visit- new modern bridge in the style of an ancient incredible structure. ing public to get around and... castle but equipped with the latest technol- 2- Less heavy traffic demands on the older ogy and made with the most efficient materi- The debate rages on everywhere. When a lost bridges will mean longer life and less costly als in order to carry this new tide of motor structure is rebuilt, what is it? Is it a mere repairs for these structures. traffic in and out of the city centre. copy, a symbol, an attempt to ignore the past. 3- Less pollution, from idling trucks and busses When a modern building is built to look like After spending so much energy rebuilding an old one, then what is it? Six-lane highway. A new bridge at Waldschlößchen will relieve the Frauenkirche, the Residenz Schlöß, the bridges didn’t exist in the days of August- the older structures of unnecessary stress. The Semper Opera and countless other buildings, The-Strong. Had they existed, what would existing bridges in Dresden can only do so can Dresden really afford to built anything we be crossing the Elbe on today? Fantasy or much, and with the ever changing economic less than a matching landmark to insure pure speculation, in order to stay true to the and social climate in this part of Germany, the safely and welfare of it’s visitor and of Saxon heritage, what must we build at Wald- the greater Dresden area must be ready to its citizens? I visited Dresden twice myself schlößchen? I inspired myself of the Baroque welcome an ever increasing tourism trade as over the past two years... this is an amazing Garden structure at Großsedlitz. I thought of well as the repercussion of economic devel- city with a colossal public transit system. It using the Kronnentor of the Zwinger but then, opment in the neighboring countries. With the is the bloodline of the city and for it not to I didn’t want to deminish the uniqueness and increasing number of visitor coming to Dres- be included at the Waldschlößchen crossing the prestige of the Zwinger. And because the den every year, the historic centre as well as seems to me to be a grave omission at best. Waldschlößchen bridge is not at the centre of the Elbe valley are areas of Dresden have to Dresden, I think it should have its own very be preserved. The area suffered enough from This bridge has to be a model of efficiency, special character. the calamities of man already without having not only the result of a by-pass route, but to be defaced or injured once again, all our the logical location for a bridge to be serv- I used the Baroque Garden structure at efforts must be made to solve and construct a ing a population and a need for better access. Großsedlitz because it seemed to have a viable link that not only will get people from I must really put the emphasis on “MOD- workable scale and because it looked so point A to point B, but will be in itself an at- ERN” for the bridge I propose will look an- good in the middle of a garden... I let you be traction, the focal point of the arc of the Elbe. cient but like everything ever built in Dres- the judge of the resulting transfer to Dresden den, this must be a state-of-the-art structure, via Photoshop files. It does seem fitting to Taking away traffic that doesn’t need to trav- a marvel of practicality. Only then will this use the same basic color scheme as Moritz- el through the historic section of the city is structure be acceptable as a viable solution. burg and other castle of the same period, but the main goal of this exercise. But in order It will look ancient to blend-in with it’s lo- I am of the opinion than if a better colour to fulfill this mandate, the new bridge MUST cation, to blend in with the historical events combination can be devised to accentuate the BE close enough to the downtown core as that have shaped the Elbe valley since 1206. unique character of the bridge and of it loca- to be a viable alternative route in, out and It will look ancient because it has to reflect tion, it should be put forth and executed. through the area. To divert the business traf- proudly the beauty and the character of one fic, commuters and deliveries out of the main of the most dramatic city on earth. No one As you see in this section, there is much more touristic area of Dresden can only be seen can ever erase the legacy of Dresden. Away to this than just a simple road construction as a blessing by the tourist trade and by the from the centre of town, we are able to create project between two localities. An incredible other sector as well, for they will have better a unique landmark to the image of August- amount of care must be given to every as- access to their clients, other business and the The-Strong, of his Kingdom, of the richness pects of this bridge for it will modify Dres- infrastructures. and talent of it’s people. den. It must be like no other bridge for it will become part of this complex amalgamation Less commercial traffic in the historic down- This is not just rerouting traffic away from of old and new that is Dresden today. town Dresden also means a healthier environ- downtown Dresden... this is about gracing ment for both the citizens and tourists. Less the Elbe with a new crown, one that many idling, less waiting time at traffic lights and will see. One that will take your breath away. better traffic flow make a huge difference on “This” is a new bridge over the Elbe at Dres- the quality of the air in any city. Proper man- den, Germany. In my view, this is the most agement of traffic issues can make a city into awesome task anyone can think of and as a livable place, most German cities I have I volunteer my time and energy doing this visited are models of these principles. proposal, my mind cannot forget that this Here lays probably the greatest advantage this for thousands of people every day. It is crucial Waldschlößchen bridge has to be conceived erything must be done to preserve, restore whole thing under a roof may sound a little assurance that its presence will not result in bridge has to offer the population of Dresden. that these newcomers be given the means as a much needed element of both transporta- and protect this sensitive area. Digging for odd, but the amounts saved in maintenance a further degrading of the area surrounding The new Waldschlößchen bridge will allow to visit the Elbe valley in an orderly fashion tion infrastructure and cultural landmark. foundation is something bridge construc- alone will more than make up the higher it. As for the argument against a covered the public a direct and clean access to this im- so as not to disturb the area with some of In order to be successful, this bridge must be tion cannot forego. Considering the needs construction cost at first and will for sure bridge relating to ventilation, let me just say mensely prestigious green space. No parking the less-than-desirable effects that hordes of as modern and efficient as possible and also and the advance in modern bridge building make of the Waldschlößchen bridge one that a tunnel under the Elbe would indeed be needed, direct access via a new tramway line visitors can sometime have on given land- must be totally integrated in the fabric of it’s techniques, I must stress that the project of the most visited attraction on the Elbe a more complex proposal. The mesh curtain with a station right at the heart of the valley at marks or monuments – parking of motorcars, surroundings. now being considered represent greater risk valley. discussed earlier will allow the air through, the north entrance tower of this new Baroque- coaches, trash and litter, pet-droppings and so to the Elbe and its flood plain. This project although the installation of turbine or fans style covered bridge. The whole bridge will on and so forth. The new Waldschlößchen bridge will be the can only be successful if it has a positive So how is this covered bridge supposed to seems a fair necessity in case of fire result- indeed be a viewing platform where one will entrance by which many visitors will discover impact on the environment, in this case, the bring better access to parkland? ing of an accident. Actually, the fact that the be able to examine all aspect of the structure A tramway stop at Waldschlößchen bridge the Elbe. As our planet gets much smaller city of Dresden. new Waldschlößchen bridge will be cov- and where one will be given a panoramic may prove to be one busy station, but at least, every day, people are looking at pristine areas The key to this is the tramway line, for ered may indeed reduce quite substantially view of the Elbe valley. Equipped with wide the busses and cars will be passing through like the Elbe valley with renewed interest. Less digging and soil disturbances, less vehicular traffic will be expedited across the number of accidents within its surface covered and open pedestrian galleries, bicycle and not stopping for a visit! With a little bit Providing a state-of-the-art structure capable obstacle in the flood plain and less risk for as fast as it is safe to proceed. Access for roadways. This is somewhat of an assump- lanes access ramp an stairs at both ends, the of imagination, a few large water pumps of the practical as well as the decorative is damages during high water periods, a wider pedestrian and cyclist is the other advantage tion for we have no way of knowing... this new Waldschlößchen bridge will indeed pro- and high pressure water-jet lines tracing the a challenge... starting with a better feel for bridge with higher traffic volume capac- but, these access will be place at each ends will the first modern 6 lane highway covered vide easy way in and out of the valley with a outline of the structure, in concert with a what has to be preserved always helped. I ity to reduce possibilities of traffic tie-ups, of the structure, away from the flood plain. bridge ever made. I suspect a dryer, ice-free direct tramway route around the clock. specially devised lighting system, one could thought that the vacant land close to the river all these advantages have one simple goal In climates like Canada or Germany, water, roadway to be a place where less accident actually create quite awesome fountain-like was where much of the old city was. I though - keeping the Elbe valley as pristine, as quiet ice and temperature variations extract a very will occur. As for the question of trucks car- Dresden is far better known for its archi- light-show on any given nights or at summer that it had been vacant since the war... after and as clean as we can in the context of a high toll on the infrastructure. Covering a rying dangerous flammable or explosive and tectural wonders than it’s parks and green holidays. This water system could be part of visiting Dresden twice now, I do understand city which will probably reach a population modern highway bridge had been out of chemicals products, I would suspect that the spaces. It is also better known for the drama the cooling system for the solar-panels on the better what the dynamic and evolution pattern of a million by the year 2020... or sooner! the question up until recently. Advances in same guideline as tunnels would have to be of it’s destruction than for the amazing con- roof which would provide proper lighting lev- of the city are. Because of this, and because Planning for the right structure and build- lighting technology with better solar panels adopted for the new Waldschlößchen bridge. tours of it’s still very pristine natural setting. els in and around the structure at all time. As of the very nature of the Elbe from Pilnitz to ing it the right way will reduce repair cost, and low consumption lighting devices will Dresden is fast becoming a travel destination unique as the park-setting it sits in, the new Meißen, it is of the highest order that ev- closure and again, traffic tie-ups. Putting the allow us to erect this new bridge with the 3- To provide better access to the Elbe ValleyParkland 4- To become one of Dresden’s many attractions

Dresden here has a wonderful opportunity to means that we must provide the tools for the the human race has played, created, destroyed acceptable? Dresden and it’s population seem fit the urban demands of modern Dresden, it A tram line enclosed in the roof is an excellent enrich itself of an element that will provide its city to be able to present a livable and coher- and examined itself. That experience is Dres- to have a very defined idea of what their city will become itself a new emblem of that city. location to install large copies of pictures and infrastructure with a unique landmark. ent version of itself during all ages and stages den and is unique. Creating a sense that what can look like. It is something that hits me every Dresden has a golden opportunity to break new photographs telling the story of the city from Building this ‘SMART’ covered bridge will be, of it’s growth. We cannot use different set of is needed at Waldschlößchen is more than a time I think of Dresden! grounds, not simply by rebuilding what was 1206 until now. The commuters or visitors will in itself, reason to celebrate... after all, what historical data or past contexts as an excuses or bridge is the basic message I get from reading once there, but by creating a brand-new land- walk that gallery or simply see it unravel from other bridge on earth can control the amount of obstacles to prevent correct or desirable choic- about the many attempts made in the past. This The definition of modern city cannot be made mark out of the needs for better transport, and the trams as they are sliding along their routes. light coming in at sunset by adjusting curtain- es to be made for the future of Dresden. thing must indeed be a crown over the Elbe. without modern buildings. Economically, for that need to be executed in a fashion that Since a Baroque structure has to have a roof... angles to reduce glare? For this city to remain the vibrant capital it has morally, politically... and yet, a modern city fuses the influences and styles that have been (after all this IS a covered bridge) what better become will demand that we look at the needs We have time still to examine the ideas I bring is nothing without its past. There is Dresden. the visual gift of Dresden to our world. use can we make of it than promoting the his- How many other covered bridges are built in of it’s inhabitants first. The contexts of tourism forth and to integrate other concepts. May be Reclaiming it’s past from the destruction, but tory of the city around it! What is wanted and the Baroque style? Now, this question may is one huge industry based in the old city. The yet reducing the number of span to four, or making sure we all know what has been done, Now with all the very high-tech firms that are desired is for people to get off the trams and seem totally irrelevant to the performance of Elbe valley is one of the most amazing urban adopting a different look... may be a less ornat- when and why. Bridging the Elbe... yet again it active in the Dresden area, it is also my feel- walk to the valley below. And in the winter, the structure itself. But it isn’t. Any bridge park on earth. Nothing here can be cheap... ev- ed, more medieval style... be it as it may, Dres- seems that Dresden is almost ready to take that ing that their participation will create an even that portion of the tram line will remain dry and built on the Elbe, far away from any cities can erything must be made to fit the demands of den has the advantage of being an outstanding very step. more unique bridge at Waldschlößchen. With free of snow and ice. be built in many ways, ecomically, and with the population, of it’s visitors and of more than place where inspiration comes from 800 years the benefits of this pool of talent, I am sure that the latest available methods... here in Dresden, 800 years of urban evolution. Few cities on of history. To create a unique Landmark here So what is a true landmark in the urban con- one could stand next to the Waldschlößchen So there it is, a bridge on the Elbe at Wald- we have different demands. This is a UNESCO earth have the talent for survival Dresden has. quite simple... but to create something which text? and barely hear a whisper... and here is an- schlößchen that blends more than just Baroque WORLD HERITAGE SITE, and as such, it is That command of survival dictates a unique will be as unique as it is modern and efficient I propose this for an answer. An urban landmark other fine opportunity for Dresden to be at the style with highway traffic... a showcase, a expected that the area be treated with the out- path for the future, for it is at Dresden that will be a little harder to achieve. Why? Well, is a building or a place, a space where people forefront of new technologies. Many aspects unique monument to the past, built today for most respect for its history, it’s evolution and many of us will look to learn and understand simply because with every passing decade and gather. A place designed for people, a useful of the construction and features of the Wald- the future generations. it’s future. what survival means... and when we look, we centuries, Dresden becomes more complex. practical structure that breaks new ground for schlößchen bridge will have to be developed, must be able to see and feel this uniqueness. What is the correct style? What are those cor- it’s engineering, it’s social value and its relat- yet Dresden seems to be the best place for that What does the future imply for a city with From every stone, every window and every rect colours? Why are those modern bridges edness to the society that built it. It is my view very development to happen. a past such as Dresden’s history? It simply vantage points, Dresden is a showcase in which with high-mast and cable-stayed structures not that if the Waldschlößchen bridge is built to The remarks made concerning the existing in- Elbe in the days of August The Strong... but stop on the tram line and would permit faster tegrity of the urban landscape in and around we do now. My proposal is to blend the need access to the Elbe valley by the citizens of Dresden can be debated to great length. Any of a future bridge with the notion of history. Dresden. urban landscape, be it from the 17th, 18th, My goal is to make what must be done, to or 11th century is the result of an evolution blend in and to be in harmony with what ex- This great new bridge over the Elbe will in- made through the human experience itself. ists and what existed long ago. Large, wide deed interrupt the view from different vistas No building surviving in Dresden today can covered bridges are not my invention. They in the Dresden Elbe Valley. But above it, the be pinpointed as being an untouched jewel allowed our civilization across the rivers of new bridge, if built properly to blend in with from the past. Dresden is the epythemy of time to our epoch. In both Europe and Ameri- the surroundings, will become the centerpiece what I will call here the evolving human city, ca, covered bridges got us where we are now. of the valley. It will be in time a place where a place where human presence is cause for To build such a structure in Dresden up to people go to admire the view in both direction both greatness and catastrophes. modern standards and with modern material east to Loschwitz or to the west toward the re- would indeed be a first. Yes, the top part of stored Baroque Jewel of Germany, Dresden. Again, let me ad that a structure situated at the flat roof would indeed be covered of so- The work of the Institute of Urban Design and Waldschlößchen can actually promote the lar panels to generate proper lighting inside. Regional Planning of the Aachen University overall views of the valley and if it gets con- The sides would not be glass but a moder- is very complete and precise. A very valuable structed in the style, or in a style reminiscent ately fine vinyl mesh capable of stopping document, it nevertheless seemed to me to of the surrounding structures, it’s impact can noise and snow but allowing the air to flow have been short sighted on a few important be very positive indeed. Of course, no one freely through the structure. It would indeed points. In the definition of terms, a continuing needed a six lane highway bridge over the look like a Baroque castle. It would also be a landscape is one that retain an active social 5- To blend with the existing Structures and General Environment of the Elbe Valley role in a contemporary setting. I totally agree Not taking this in account is alarming indeed. with this definition and for that agreement, Keeping the noise to a minimum? No, This to deny Dresden the proper use of it’s assets, thing has to be so quiet, standing beside it, one both human, physical and territorial would must only be able to hear a faint humming... constitute a grave mistake. We cannot forego nothing more. This is why a covered bridge is transformation and evolution on the simple the answer in Dresden. With modern materials pretext of the preservation of sight lines. and the latest advances in sound proofing, the inside vault of this bridge must absorb 90% Although not an architect myself, but having of traffic noise. The pavement itself can be seen bridges being built all over the world, I made of smaller particles and made to reduce can safely assume that the guidelines and fea- tire friction noise by almost half according to tures I propose in this document can only help recent studies in the USA and France. Keeping us understand what is at play here. I propose a the noise in from one side of the flood plain three span bridge. The present project has nine right across to the other side in a magnificently which will necessitate digging 11 sets of foun- ornated structure and in almost complete si- dations, versus four. That alone represent a lence... huge saving of material, man-hour and energy. 9 sets of foundations for a four-lane highway bridge of 638m is pure nonsense! The Carola brücke built in 1965-66 offers a better ratio and carries both trams and 4 lanes of motor traffic!

And since the preservation of the Elbe valley is a predominant factor into all this, the less we dig and alter the nature of the floodplain, the better it is for the environment and the folks living within its reach. Eleven piers offer way more resistance and potential for damage to a structure than five... specially with the potential for flooding associated to the Elbe. Conclusion

In regards to sight-lines and visual impact. be conceived to enhance Elbe river valley. be allowed inside the structure through a set I agree that the proposed covered bridge will of steel cage walkways to allow the public to cause a disruption of the sight-lines east-west or I especially planned the north entrance tower to see the bridge being built in front of them. This west to east as you may prefer. It is my opinion be bigger and taller so as to blend with the hills would be impossible to achieve for a bridge be- that although larger and more obtrusive than behind it and to be able to give visitor a breath- ing built over a deep gorge or a wider body of the present project, the Baroque covered bridge taking view of the valley from the old town of water... but as the valley floor lays one a few concept harmonizes better with the general look Dresden all the way past Loschwitz. This tower meters below, temporary platform to allow the of the area. will also be the main part of the Elbtal Tramway work to be seen by the public would create a real There is no doubt in my mind that what we are stop and in it will be hidden stairs and lifts to sense of belonging, an opportunity for people to loosing in sight-lines, the new project more grant access to the photo gallery at track level, really feel the pulse of the project and to feel its than makes up in giving a new focal point to the promenade at road level of the bridge and to progression. It is also a marvelous opportunity the Elbe valley in the centre of the arc between the valley floor and the open parkland. for Dresden to showcase it’s newest attraction... the old town of Dresden and the eastern suburb and start attracting more visitors to the area of Loschwitz. The south tower will have a shorter stance but will also alloy people to access the 2 levels of This bridge must be the jewel of the Elbe. As This new platform will allow visitors to get the bridge from the valley floor and the exist- Dresden is becoming again the beautiful capi- a 360º view of the valley and of the amazing ing network of cycling and walking paths. The tal of the Saxon free-state, if we must breach structures that exist on both sides. This ability longer span length and fewer piers also means the sight-lines of the Elbe valley, lets do it to visualize the entire Elbe valley in this fash- much less disruption in the valley during con- with something worth looking at, let’s create ion is impossible without a structure standing struction as much of the bridge can be designed a masterpiece of modern engineering the likes in the valley. We will lose some of the longer to be built on shore, away from the valley, these of which has never been seen anywhere in the sight-lines, yes, but we are gaining a superb components can then be moved into place with world... belvedere capable of generating a completely ease and would not require the valley itself to new sense of what the Elbe valley means to the be shut down for weeks or months during con- people of Dresden... seeing the valley from the struction. The goal is the do as little work as two entrance tower of the bridge will create a we can in the valley itself. Once the main su- completely new set of possibilities for artists to per-structure is in place, the valley can be wide render as well as for citizens and visitors to ac- open and the work above does not need to in- tually contemplate one of the nicest urban green terfere with human activity in the parkland. It space the world has to offer. This bridge has to should be organized and planned for people to