Introduction
The world is filled with architectural marvels that push the boundaries of human engineering and design. Among these, cantilever bridges stand out for their unique structures, which offer a fascinating combination of art and functionality. In this article, we explore the top 10 most impressive cantilever bridges around the world.
Kruszwica Bridge (Poland)
The Kruszwica Bridge is located in the town of Kruszwica, Poland, spanning across the Vistula River and connecting the towns of Bydgoszcz and Toruń. This bridge was completed in 2013, marking a significant milestone for Polish engineering. The cantilever structure extends 165 meters (541 feet) from the center pier into the river, providing an impressive sight.
Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge (China)
The Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge is a 36-kilometer-long (22-mile) bridge-cum-tunnel infrastructure connecting the cities of Hong Kong, Macau, and Zhuhai in China. This mega project, which was completed in 2018, utilizes a combination of cantilever bridges, box girder bridges, and cable-stayed bridges to traverse challenging waterways. With its unique design, the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge is a remarkable engineering feat.
Sydney Harbour Bridge (Australia)
The iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge is one of Australia’s most recognized structures, known locally as “The Coat Hanger” due to its distinctive arch shape. Built between 1923 and 1932, this cantilever bridge spans a distance of 503 meters (1,647 feet) across Sydney Harbour. The bridge features two steel arches supported by concrete piers on either side, creating an impressive architectural statement that has endured for over a century.
Henry W. Coe Bridge (United States)
The Henry W. Coe Bridge is located in San Francisco’s Bay Area, crossing the Guadalupe River just south of the city. This 310-meter-long (1,017-foot) cantilever bridge was designed by engineering firm Arup and completed in 2016 as part of the Caltrain Modernization Program. The structure is notable for its use of a single continuous steel box girder, which allows it to carry both light rail trains and bicycle and pedestrian traffic on separate levels.
Sutong Bridge (China)
The Sutong Bridge, located in Jiangsu Province, China, spans the Yangtze River between Nantong and Haimen. It was completed in 2009 and is the world’s longest cable-stayed and cantilever bridge combined structure. The bridge features a 1,392-meter-long (4,567-foot) main span and stands 323 meters (1,059 feet) tall at its highest point. With an impressive design that combines functionality with aesthetics, the Sutong Bridge is a symbol of modern Chinese engineering.
Little Belt Bridge (Denmark)
The Little Belt Bridge is situated in the eastern part of Denmark and connects the islands of Funen and Jutland via the city of Fredericia. Completed in 1970, this impressive bridge features a unique design that combines two separate steel cantilever structures connected by a central concrete pier. At 836 meters (2,743 feet) long and standing at 95 meters (312 feet) above sea level, the Little Belt Bridge is an engineering marvel recognized for its innovative approach to bridge construction.
Severn River Crossing Bridges (United States)
The Severn River Crossing Bridges comprise a pair of cantilever bridges located in Maryland, United States. These two structures span the Severn River between Anne Arundel County and Prince George’s County to form part of the Baltimore-Washington Parkway. The northbound bridge, completed in 1965, is named as the Benfield/Baltimore Washington Parkway Bridge, while the southbound bridge was built a year later. Both bridges feature a single steel cantilever supported by two concrete piers and have become iconic landmarks for commuters traveling between Baltimore and Washington, D.C.
Wisdom Bridge (China)
The Wisdom Bridge, also known as the Guanyin Bridge, is situated in Sichuan Province, China, spanning the Dadu River. Completed in 1960, this cantilever bridge features a striking design that blends modern architecture with traditional Chinese motifs. The bridge’s name pays homage to its 32.4-meter (106 feet) central span, which symbolizes the 32 bodhisattvas of Buddhism. With its artistic appeal and engineering prowess, the Wisdom Bridge remains a key landmark in Southwest China.
Humber River Bridge (United Kingdom)
The Humber River Bridge connects North Lincolnshire to East Yorkshire across the Humber Estuary in England, providing an alternative route between the cities of Hull and Grimsby. This 1,410-meter-long (4,626 feet) cantilever bridge was designed by Sir Norman Foster and completed in 1986. The structure has two separate steel box girders, each standing 57 meters (187 feet) tall, which support a central span of 306 meters (1,004 feet). With its elegant design and functional purpose, the Humber River Bridge is an integral part of the transportation network in northern England.
San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge (United States)
The San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge is a major arterial route connecting the cities of Oakland and San Francisco across the San Francisco Bay in California, United States. The current bridge, built between 1968 and 1973, features an impressive cantilever structure that spans 220 feet (67 meters) over the bay. The suspension portion of the bridge extends to a total length of 425 feet (129 meters), offering a unique design that has served as a vital transportation link in Northern California for decades.
Conclusion
Cantilever bridges continue to inspire architects and engineers around the world, pushing the boundaries of innovation and functionality while also providing awe-inspiring views. From the elegant design of the Sydney Harbour Bridge to the engineering marvel that is the Sutong Bridge, these structures stand as testaments to the ingenuity of human creativity and the power of collaboration in creating lasting legacies for future generations.