This unique bridge was specially curved by an architect for a very peculiar reason
An unusual round bridge slows down the traffic and allows the drivers, pedestrians and cyclers to appreciate panoramic views. This is one of the most beautiful and untouched coastal landscape of Uruguay.
According to the authors of the project, this design has the lowest affect on the natural water flow and doesn’t obstruct the movement of the fish in the lagoon. The main idea of the customer (the government in this case) was to arrange the roar in the way the drivers could slow down to enjoy magnificent views and ocean breeze. All this is despite the circular bridge cost 11 million of dollars, while the straight one could be built just for 5 million!
Photo: Jimmy Baikovicius, https://www.flickr.com/photos/jikatu/23710998970 (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0/)
Laguna Garzón is one of several clean water basins along the coast of Uruguay. Since 1976 the lagoon is an integral part of Bañados del Este Biosphere Reserve.
Photo: Jimmy Baikovicius, https://www.flickr.com/photos/jikatu/24960454625 (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0/)
For a long time the Ministry of Transport wanted to build a bridge across the lagoon in order to have access to the coast. Before it was done, the lagoon could have been crossed by a raft only. Construction was permitted only in 1995.
Photo: Jimmy Baikovicius, https://www.flickr.com/photos/jikatu/24788043276 (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0/)
The project was developed by Rafael Viñoly. The circular bridge was opened in December, 2015. Sixteen round concrete columns, located at a distance of 20 meters from each other, support two ramps and a central rotunda above the lagoon. There are pedestrian paths that give an access to the one-way circular route. small vessels can freely pass under the bridge.
Photo: Jimmy Baikovicius, https://www.flickr.com/photos/jikatu/24647669701 (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0/)
Such kind of construction was specially designed as little harm as possible to the existing ecosystem. Its circular shape reduces the shadow on the water. There are lots of different birds in this area. Some types of molluscs are being collected here as well.
Photo: Jimmy Baikovicius, https://www.flickr.com/photos/jikatu/24646401431 (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0/)
This new bridge was the final stage of construction of the main road that leads to some seaside resorts.
