Frederick Douglass Memorial Bridge

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Frederick Douglass Memorial Bridge

South Capitol Street, Washington, DC

Frederick Douglas Memorial Bridge will be one of the more significant gateways to DC and visible landmarks on the southeast waterfront. During the concept design phase, KGP was the local Bridge Architect on the Archer Western Granite Team. KGP provided design support for the overall profile as the suspension arch structure evolved and the bridge terminations and transitioned to the urban context, contributing to a winning design and a significant addition to the waterfront. The inherent patterns surrounding us in nature and our manufactured surroundings are reflected in our activities and our daily interactions.
In addition, KGP played a pivotal part in enhancing the connection between the Frederick Douglass Memorial Bridge and the surrounding urban context. Beyond the bridge itself, KGP also took on the vital task of designing the intersection where the bridge meets the land.

This endeavor was not just about engineering but about creating a space fostering community engagement and gathering. By thoughtfully integrating public spaces that promote social interactions and reflect our surroundings' natural and manufactured patterns, KGP has redefined the bridge's significance. The Frederick Douglass Memorial Bridge is poised to become a vital gateway to the heart of Washington, D.C., and a vibrant landmark on the southeast waterfront, a testament to the power of thoughtful design in shaping the essence of our urban environment.

KGP was actively involved from the outset, shaping the bridge's initial design and its critical relationship with the surrounding terrain on both sides. This approach ensured a seamless integration with the urban fabric, creating a gateway that is both functional and symbolic, reflecting the importance of thoughtful connections in the broader context of the southeast waterfront.