Pasarela sobre el río Duero en Tudela de Duero

Abstract

Introduction The footbridge over the River Duero at Tudela de Duero forms part of the river recovery project. The aim sought was to connect the areas of town separated by the river, enhancing pedestrian and bicycle circulation across a slender structure that blends into the surrounds. Structural typology Given the asymmetrical location of the bridge, the 58 m main span was positioned over the low-water river channel, close to one of the abutments. The approach, in turn, was designed with four spans, measuring 14,13,15, and 21 m. The single cell box deck has a constant depth of 0.65 m along the entire structure. Due to its greater length, the main span was designed with a series of steel struts and a stiff tie for greater strength. In addition, the V-shaped steel-concrete composite pier under the main span is embedded in the deck. In contrast, all the other piers, which have rectangular reinforced concrete sections, are fitted with POT bearings. In the approach, the composite deck behaves like a continuous beam, whereas in the main span the box deck resists the compression induced by its arched shape, local inter-strut bending and practically all the torsion forces induced across the span. Construction The steel structure was erected with cranes. The section over pier 4, including its V-shaped arms, was erected first. The 52 m long main span was set into place with a 500 t crane positioned alongside pier 4. The lower weight, shorter approach spans were built next. Lastly, precast deck panels were set onto the steel structure to receive the cast-in-place concrete completing the deck. Aesthetics Structural aesthetics, including main shapes, part and member geometry, were studied in detail and even the ornamental railing was designed to improve the overall harmony of the structure.