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bridges

avenue 19 bridge
los angeles, california

  • Avenue 19 Bridge
  • Avenue 19 Bridge
  • Avenue 19 Bridge

The design team embraced this early 20th century inspired “deco” form as a silhouette – a singular solid cement deck with box beam construction and a sub-deck arching span mirroring the arches of the 101 freeway overhead. Working within these parameters, MacDonald Architects created the design of the sidewalk and meridian that appears to be created of river rock.

Elements of an arch form are detectable in this project’s immediate context, as evident in the surrounding hills, the neighboring bridges, and the overlying 101 freeway. By also incorporating this theme in the new structure’s handrails and barriers, a traditional bridge form is maintained. Many of the new bridge’s features are borrowed from the nearby Buena Vista Bridge. Belvederes and seating areas look out over the Los Angeles River, access roadway, and Arroyo Seco, providing viewing opportunities of this small river confluence. In the future, when the area becomes flooded and the Los Angeles River transforms into a lake, these vantage points will offer optimum views of the area and its aquatic activities (i.e. boating, fishing, etc.). These elements further enhance the roadway bridge’s edge, thereby humanizing a rather bland roadway area. The materials and patterns on the sidewalks, benches and handrails will also reinforce the bridge 1930s-style aesthetic.