OMA’s bridge park above Anacostia River in Washington DC receives planning approval

OMA’s visualisation of a 'bridge as a destination' and 'a park above the river' in the form of the 11th Street Bridge Park in Washington D.C. has received approval from the National Capital Planning Commission. The project led by Office for Metropolitan Architecture (OMA) Partner Jason Long had won an international competition together with landscape architects OLIN in 2014.

The preliminary plans put together by OMA, OLIN, structural engineers WRA and other associates were reviewed in the beginning of April 2020.

“At a time when we are paradoxically isolated from one another but united in a common cause, public spaces that we all share and that benefit health have become more important than ever,” said Jason Long, while adding, “Our work has focused on creating a new civic space that engages with the Anacostia River and refining the programme for the park to ensure it will be a place for everyone in DC.”

The new programmes of the bridge, which are part of the proposal include a new neighbourhood park for the community, an after hours destination for the nearby workforce, a comfortable retreat for the residents and a new territory for the tourists to explore.

The bridge reveals an iconic 'X' form created by paths that extend over both sides of the river. Sloped terraces provide strategic positions to view landmarks in the area. The intersection of the paths gives way to an open plaza that will host cultural performances, markets and festivals. A series of other spaces have been designed as playscapes for outdoor interaction and learning.

As the NCPC report points out, “The park will increase community connectivity and create welcoming and vibrant spaces that enhance the user experience and foster civic and local uses" Proposed to be built above the Anacostia River, the design intends to connect two historically desperate sides of the river with a series of programmed spaces, landscapes and active zones.

OMA states that 11th Street Bridge Park will be the first public space in the American capital that will make a bridge a destination where access to green spaces can significantly encourage physical activity while building social capital. The construction of the project is scheduled to begin in 2021.