Trends in ethics and aesthetics in footbridge design in Canada

This paper examines the issues of aesthetics and associated ethical considerations illustrated by design of a number of footbridges in Canada. In some cases, there is a good match between aesthetics corresponding to the ethical consideration of the range of design parameters appropriate to a particular site and, in other cases, in the opinion of the authors, the match is less successful. A number of bridges from across Canada are considered in this review, including:

• The Rideau Canal Pedestrian Bridge in Ottawa;
• The Humber River Arch Bridge, a 100 m span structure in Toronto;
• The Mimico Creek Arch Bridge in Toronto;
• The Springbank Park Cable-Stayed Footbridge in London;

The paper examines these and other Canadian footbridges from the perspective of conceptual design and planning, considering the development of a range of options and alternatives, and the balance of ethics and aesthetics which resulted in the various design solutions. It also examines the general trends in Canada with respect to the design of signature footbridges such as the roles within the design team, client and community involvement, and the significant costing issues with this type of structure.