Strand–Span weaves a tapestry of history, engineering, functionality and sustainability into a single overlay that spans the bridge. Our proposal respects the Brooklyn Bridge by manifesting as a thin single surface which unfolds as it is experienced – inviting the greater NYC public to learn, ride and play in a safe expanded space, free and open to all. The Brooklyn Bridge contains multitudes: Strand– Span is a connective fabric linking past and present while respecting both in a functional, layered and open tapestry.

History: Strand–Span’s aim is to accentuate the Brooklyn Bridge’s iconic status and beauty. The design does not interfere with the iconic reading of the bridge from Brooklyn or Manhattan. The entire proposal is contained within a 3’-0” section from top to bottom, and is almost exclusively visible to those who are occupying the bridge. The design carefully negotiates the relationship of new materials to the existing bridge construction - respecting the existing cables, textures and openings in plan, section and elevation.

Adding space for people to experience the bridge is an act of preservation. By using the ground as the medium to communicate through materiality and graphics the proposal adds context to this exceptional landmark: communicating its history, engineering feats and monumental status while interfering with it’s envelope minimally.

Access / safety: In Strand–Span everything is on one level - allowing for maximum accessibility and clear organization. The bridge will function jointly as a public space, bike path and tourist attraction. TITLE becomes a diverse open space that locals can walk through, hang out in, learn about their city’s history and find excitement. Cyclists can commute safely, vendors can be activated and tourists and locals alike can enjoy the panoramic views of the city.

Strand–Span further becomes an extension of the surrounding neighborhoods, welcoming their communities and encouraging New Yorkers from all demographic and socioeconomic backgrounds to “be part of it.” According to the NYC GOV Capital Planning Platform, 15-20% of residents living at the foot of the Brooklyn Bridge in Brooklyn Community District 2 and Manhattan Community District 3 live below the NYC poverty line, and 20-35% are ‘foreign born.’ We would like the bridge to be a space that welcomes these local residents, providing more localized public space.

The pedestrian walkway area is greatly increased. This is accomplished by ramping up the walkway to meet the height of the girders where they start, this allows the walkway to expand beyond the existing boundaries. The safety of cyclists is further enhanced by introducing a 10’ wide clear bike path, running parallel, on top of the existing girders. The proposed bike path, at each entry to the bridge diverges and ramps up to meet the top of the girders as well.