Bridges - Buro Happold

Baylor University BridgeWaco, TX, USAThe Baylor University Bridge will provide access andconnection to the new Baylor Football Stadium, alsoengineered by Buro Happold, that will be constructedacross the Brazos River north of the main campus. Asthe Brazos river is dammed downstream, this portionof the river becomes a long lake called Lake Brazos. Thewater level is consistent and calm allowing for a floatingisland structure accessible from the south or campusside to be constructed alongside and below the bridgestructure. This floating island will accommodate campusgatherings and activities and will have the provision fordocking boats.The bridge is approximately 500 feet in lengthconfigured in a gentle curving arc across Lake Brazos.The bridge is supported by one pier adjacent tothe floating island structure keeping approximately2/3rd of the width of the lake navigable. The bridgeis approximately 30 feet wide to accommodate largenumbers of people for campus events and footballgames. The design is intended to not only providea comfortable crossing but along the way will beopportunities for gathering, possibly seating as well asviewing the river landscape and the new stadium.The intent of the bridge design is to develop an iconicsignature structure that is scaled to the campus andannounces the approach to the new stadium. Thestructure will be constructed out of steel and concreteand is intended to last a minimum of 75 years. The decksurface and some of the details will be masonry or stoneand will relate back to the campus in scale and color.Lighting will be integrated into the deck, railing andsuperstructure providing indirect illumination of theiconic bridge form.Bridge Capability Statement40Key project informationClientArchitectProject valueDatesBaylor UniversityPopulous$7.5MOngoingServices provided by Buro HappoldBridge design