RELATED SEARCHES

» Overview

Certain bridges become icons associated with different locales. The Golden Gate Bridge, being one of the most exquisite bridges ever constructed, is a symbol of San Francisco's aspirations. It stands luminously over the city, shrouding it in fluid curves and dynamic repetition. The Golden Gate Bridge is a feat of modern engineering and represents the power of the human will in a tangible form. The Brooklyn Bridge is another example of an iconic and legendary bridge construction effort. It is important to remember the challenges that were overcome to build such a miraculous example of perseverance and determination. New Yorkers are reminded daily of this masterpiece of bridge construction that they call The Brooklyn Bridge. Each bridge construction effort is symbolic of this same will. Certain situations require a particular mode of construction appropriate to that locale. For example, a covered bridge can be used for a number of reasons. Sometimes a covered bridge is what is needed to provide the structural support that is required of a draw bridge. Other times a covered bridge is built to protect the bridge from corrosion and weather damage. Sometimes a covered bridge is built as a preventative measure. The design of a bridge should have beauty and function at the same time. There is beauty in function. To find a balance in these is the essence of what a bridge should be. Bridges are there to serve humanity. Bridges connect one side of a city to another. A bridge is a transition from one environment to another. Each bridge is an experience all in it's own, and different bridges have distinct auras. A city can have a number of bridges, each of which is was probably constructed at a different time, and they reflect a particular mode of construction appropriate to the time period in which they were constructed. Bridges are to be explored. A city's bridges are symbols of it's accomplishments. They are symbols of unity and of a gap being connected between different and distinct worlds. To cross a bridge is to say, "I have arrived". We can move freely across water without impediment. There is no swimming or boats involved. We can walk or drive out into the sky on a bridge, and that is what it feels like being on one.