I Street Bridge Replacement

The new signature bridge replaces an existing structure that is 100 years old and lacks safe travel for pedestrians and bicyclists. Given TYLin’s significant experience with public engagement plans and context-sensitive design, we developed a variety of design concepts that exemplified local community values. Bridge design requirements included its use as a lift bridge and adhering to Coast Guard requirements for clear space around barges passing under the structure.

The selected design, called the “Spring,” consists of an 860-foot-long, 100-foot-wide bridge with a unique 300-foot-long basket-handle network tied-arch lifting span. The two parallel arches are connected to the movable span, which has a vertical lift height of about 49 feet.

The new I Street Bridge will cross the Sacramento River upstream of the existing bridge, which will continue to serve the railroad. Connecting the cities of Sacramento and West Sacramento, the landmark replacement bridge will improve mobility for vehicles, bicyclists, and pedestrians and stimulate the local economy.

Project Highlights:

• TYLin designed a bridge that met public demand for a signature span while adhering to budget limitations.
• The deck width will accommodate a future light-rail system without affecting bicycle and pedestrian lanes in either direction.
• At either side of the lifting span, shaded observation areas cantilever out by close to 12 feet, offering scenic views for users.
• The lifting span will be constructed of aluminum to reduce both bridge weight and tower size, allowing for a sleeker and more aesthetic bridge profile.
• To accommodate wider walkways and unobstructed views, two independent towers sit at each end of the bridge instead of a single tower at each end for housing the counterweight and operating machinery.
• The new I Street Bridge may be the world’s first vehicular network tied arch lifting bridge.