It seems appropriate to post a photo of this bridge at sunset because its life is probably nearing an end. It's 85 years old and it seems that upkeep and maintenance costs may soon exceed replacement costs. Plans are afoot to replace the bridge with another during the next couple of years. While I am in favor of preserving heritage construction, I don't find this bridge particularly appealing. To me its design appears purely functional with no attempt to make it attractive. Since I've been doing this daily city photoblog and looking at others from around the world I've seen many really remarkably beautiful bridges. Bridge design has come a long way in the last 85 years and I hope Victoria decides to erect a bridge that will add to this city's beauty.
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Update August 4, 2009.
Since I wrote the above I've found that there is a lot of discussion around this issue, and much better informed discussion than you will find here. For a start, check out the article, "Blue Bridge Blues," by Yule Heibel in Focus Magazine. Secondly, take a look at the "Johnson Street Bridge Victoria" website that explores the issues and controversies and has many links you can follow to other sources of information.
6 comments:
Which ever new design comes into being, I hope it 'hums' when you drive over it like it does now. Strange maybe, but I really like that!
And I love the angle on the blue railing you caught!
Great capture of the setting sun. The bridge may be utilitarian but I too love the railing on the rock wall. Great photo.
Smiles
I like the blue bridge...but then I also liked the old Memorial Arena.
I'm excited about the bridge replacement too, as I don't find this bridge particularly nice to look at. I'm wondering where you took this picture, I thought I was pretty familiar with the area around here but can't place the blue railing?
Thanks all for your comments.
Toast - the hum is nice if you're in a car - it's like 5 seconds in one of those vibrating beds - but it's not really comfortable if you're on a bike....
Jabba - the blue railing is in front of that large resort/spa/hotel - the Delta Victoria Ocean Pointe
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