Projects

RiverEdge Park Pedestrian Bridge

RiverEdge Park Pedestrian Bridge

Aurora, Illinois
United States
RiverEdge Bridge

TYLin was selected by the City of Aurora, Illinois, to design the RiverEdge Park Pedestrian Bridge over the Fox River.

Providing a safe river crossing for pedestrians and cyclists, the RiverEdge Park Pedestrian Bridge is part of the master plan to redevelop the City’s historic downtown district. 

TYLin initially developed eight bridge concepts along four alignment profiles for the project. The selected design for the signature pedestrian bridge is a 7-span concrete girder structure with an elegant S-curve alignment. The graceful bridge profile creates a dynamic crossing experience with scenic views in all directions. 

The innovative design for the superstructure is a central beam “spine” from which two pathways cantilever on either side. The segregated twin pathways allow the faster commuter bicyclists to be safely separated from the slower pedestrians.  

The RiverEdge Park Pedestrian Bridge unites the new RiverEdge Park on the east side of the river with existing neighborhoods, redeveloped parks, and trails on the west side. The crossing also allows non-motorized commuters to connect across the river to the recently improved, multimodal Aurora Transportation Center. 

Project Highlights: 

  • TYLin met the unique architectural and engineering challenge of providing an iconic, cost-effective design that balances diverse user needs.  
  • The final bridge design was developed through a series of public meetings and refinements with City staff. 
  • From conceptual visioning to final design, TYLin provided bridge architecture, aesthetic lighting, structural engineering, and electrical engineering services. 
  • From the riverbanks, the pathway decks gradually rise to the top of the girder at the midspan, where overlooks and benches offer views of the Fox River and downtown Aurora. 
  • Integral dynamic color-changing LED lighting brings the bridge to life during major events or remains quietly discrete as desired by the city.

Image Credits: Dave Burk Photo, Savanna Rita Photo

Services

Awards
Best Project Award, Landscape/Urban Development, 2022
Engineering News-Record (ENR) Midwest
Best Project, Landscape/Urban Development, 2022
Engineering News-Record (ENR), Midwest