INDIANAPOLIS (Inside INdiana Business) – 16 Tech Community Corp. in Indianapolis unveiled what it says is a one-of-a-kind design for a new signature bridge. The organization says the bridge will connect the 16 Tech Innovation District with the downtown medical and research corridor.

Plans for the bridge, estimated at more than $ 20 million, have been in the works for more than two years.

In December 2020, the nonprofit selected Germany-based schlaich bergermann (sbp) and Practice for Architecture and Urbanism in New York to lead the design effort, which also included a collaboration with Monitors Communication Design, Martha Schwartz Partners (MSP), Shrewsberry & Associates, CTL Engineering, Circle Design Group and People for Urban Progress (PUP).

16 Tech claims that the wave-shaped design of the bridge is a reinterpretation of the classic suspension bridge and is achieved by replacing the standard vertical masts with multiple smaller masts arranged in a fan pattern. It also features flat steel plates as the main supports instead of the traditional suspension cables.

The bridge will have protected lanes for pedestrians and cyclists that are separated from vehicular traffic. It also curves outward on its eastern edge, which 16 Tech says will create a cantilevered gathering space suspended above Fall Creek.

“The design team combined engineering, design thinking and thoughtful community engagement to create a truly iconic and inclusive centerpiece for Indianapolis,” said Emily Krueger, COO of 16 Tech Community Corp. “The 16 Tech Bridge showcases the innovation at the heart of 16 Tech and continues to improve our city’s connectivity.

In addition to connecting the Innovation District to the downtown medical and research corridor, the bridge is designed to connect the district to the city’s wider network of trails and greenways.

16 Tech expects the bridge to be completed by the end of 2023 or early 2024.