Pedestrian walkway over the Riera de la Bisbal
El Vendrell
The realization of a pedestrian bridge across the Riera de la Bisbal, with an abutment on the Paseig de les Bóbiles, provides the opportunity to introduce a new structure that will help to activate and define an otherwise undeveloped public space.
Today, the Paseig de les Bóbiles is an area intended for public use that only retains the chimney of the old Miret factory as a connection to its history.
As we gradually incorporate new elements and amenities —a pedestrian bridge today, a pergola tomorrow, a children’s play area soon thereafter— we will furnish the Promenade and imbue it with the character it currently lacks.
However, these elements must also possess inherent character; they must be unique, designed not merely with use and functionality in mind, but also by emphatically prioritizing the aesthetic dimension.
Considering the distinct character and intended use of each side of the “riera”, the width of the footbridge is tapered, widening where it meets the Passeig de les Bóbiles. This variation in width also functions as a visual strategy (a forced perspective or trompe-l’oeil): from the Botafoc side, the narrower opening generates an illusion that the bridge is shorter, making the center of El Vendrell appear closer. The inverse effect is achieved from the Passeig side.
This proposal **highlights the intervention on the Passeig de les Bóbiles side by positioning a Corten steel pylon from which tensile cables radiate to support the footbridge, which finally lands on the opposing pavement. This pylon, reminiscent of a sail mast, establishes a dialogue with the surviving chimney of the old Miret factory and will constitute a new, prominent landmark visible from afar.
In terms of structural performance, the ground-anchored pylon supports the footbridge using a single stay cable on each side originating from its top. This main cable then splits at a specific point to suspend the deck at various locations. The walkway deck section can therefore be very thin because the primary structural load is borne by the pylon.
Regarding material specifications, the pylon is constructed using a Corten steel casing surrounding a reinforced concrete core, with the latter positioned at the rear of the pylon, facing the Passeig de les Bóbiles.
Situación: El Vendrell
Cliente: Ajuntament del Vendrell
Estructura: BOMA – Brufau, Obiol, Moya & Asociados
Construcción: Pendinte