Most of the bridges are usually quite simple, at least in their trajectory. Although we can find spectacular bridges, with enormous lengths that are great works of engineering, few are as original as a bridge in the shape of a ring. Yes, with a circular shape.
Although it seems somewhat paradoxical, since the fact of building a bridge usually aims to cover the greatest distance with the shortest possible route, this time we present a bridge that breaks all expectations, the Laguna Garzón Bridge.
The Laguna Garzón Bridge was inaugurated in 2015 . It is built on a lagoon from which it takes its name, near the mouth of the Arroyo Garzón in the Pacific Ocean, near the southern coast of Uruguay. This bridge connects the cities of Maldonado and Rocha, being without a doubt the most benefited with this original structure.
This work that is so curious you are visiting, was designed by the Uruguayan architect Rafael Viñoly, who supports more than one reason for creating this somewhat strange silhouette.
Minimize the impact of vehicle traffic
The environment on which the bridge was built is a natural environment of unequaled ecological value. In order to preserve this space, the architect tried to create a structure that would force vehicles to slow down.
Reducing speed implies reducing noise, reducing pollution levels and providing extra security to the walkway.
This allows the bridge to have pedestrian access in both directions, according to its designer.
The concept of the Laguna Garzón Bridge was to transform a traditional vehicle crossing into an event that reduces the speed of cars, to provide the opportunity to enjoy panoramic views of an incredible landscape and at the same time create a perfect pedestrian place.
Its height allows the circulation of all
The bridge, due to its shape, requires more points of support. Create a circle of concrete columns that support the structure. This is an important factor that, thanks to its dimensions, exceeds.
The movements of both boats and fauna through the lagoon are not affected by the construction, thus eliminating any environmental impact that it could generate. This is another of the aspects that most characterize this bridge. A work that allows circulation and accessibility without hardly generating a great impact on the environment.
A great solution for the population
Before this work was developed, the only way it allowed its inhabitants and visitors to cross the lagoon was through inflatable boats.
They had to float whatever they wanted to transport through rafts. By means of flotation they allowed their users to cross. These transports were always very rudimentary and not very functional. Each vehicle, always small, crossed the lagoon individually. After its inauguration, an estimated 1000 vehicles cross the bridge a day.
A ring-shaped bridge as a tourist attraction
This ring-shaped bridge was built in just two years and has been a great call to tourism. Its circular shape allows you to create a walkway over the lagoon that includes an observation platform. Fact that allows more and more visitors to move to the place, attracted by this spectacular bridge.
Each of the two semicircles that make up the ring is one-way. In such a way that it invites you to take a walk around its surroundings. Thanks to its height and accessibility, it allows all its visitors a view that is often difficult to find. We must also bear in mind that this area of southern Uruguay is an important area for bird watching .
