Chapter 17: Footbridges

From the basic to the sublime, from their earliest simplest forms to the most complex structures, footbridges continue to play a significant role in our built environment. Having several distinct features, footbridges are presented as a special case of bridge engineering. In this chapter, a brief introduction to footbridges is presented, which is followed by discussions on brief and general requirements, aesthetics and context. Principles of setting out are described and extended to cover access, alignment and structural proportions. Different types of footbridge are reviewed, with their appropriateness for different circumstances. Detailing and its importance in constructability and maintainability is identified and discussed. A discussion of materials and finishes looks at the traditional as well as modern and more advanced options for both structural and architectural elements, including finishes for decks and walkways. Following construction processes and techniques, ten examples are provided to cover a variety of principles, forms, constraints and situations that may be encountered. It is concluded that footbridge design and construction will continue to inspire engineers and architects to create new forms, employing new design and construction techniques and materials.