Six Languages and Cultures for the Design & Construction of a new Cable-Stayed Pedestrian Bridge at Algiers Bay

Abstract

<p>Working abroad, with contractors and subcontractors, designers and supervisions of different cultures and nationalities requires constant interaction between all participants. Decisions that are obvious based on current practice in their countries by some engineers may be strongly discussed by other. Current construction practices may importantly differ from country to country. In a global world, it becomes very important to emphasize the dialog at both design and construction phases and to make a very important didactic effort from the point of view of the project.</p> <p>The Bay of Algiers was renowned to be one of the most beautiful in the world. However, industrial development and bad planning were responsible in recent decades of progressive deterioration of the shores, precluding the access of the citizens to the sea. The new promenade at “Les Sablettes” represents an enormous opportunity for the city to recover this degraded area. This promenade is separated from the city by the coastal highway. In order to give access to this new public space, a pedestrian bridge was required to connect the city with the sea shore. In addition, this bridge should be a new landmark in the Bay of Algiers, which leads to design an iconic structure that could emphasize the modernity of the city. The accepted solution consists on a steel bridge stayed from a single inclined pylon.</p>