KGPdesign studio

Located by the C&O canal in Georgetown, close to Rock Creek, stands a small pedestrian bridge developed by KGP Design Studio and commissioned by Georgetown Co, in collaboration with the National Park Service. The bridge provides a critical N-S pedestrian and bike link at the confluence of Canal and Rock Creek. Located at the historic Lock 1, and termination of the 184-mile canal, the bridge will provide a unique experience as well as perspective through the stepping sequence of Georgetown locks at the core of Georgetown's historic core. Also located within a 100-year flood zone, resilience, as well as sensitivity to its context, is a critical consideration shaping its design. A tapered girder design allowed the minimal profile necessary to accommodate potential flooding as well as maintain view sheds within this important linear urban park. Its turn-of-the-century industrial vernacular complements the adjacent pedestrian bridges, with wood plank decking and industrial steel guardrails. The bridge's approaches and granite-faced abutments are configured to minimize site disturbance and impact on the surrounding parkland site.