Pont Jacques Chaban Delmas, Bordeaux: The Story of the Vertical Bridge

Pont Jacques Chaban Delmas, simply known as the vertical bridge is an architectural gem that graces the Garonne River in Bordeaux, France. Rising proudly above the river’s gentle flow, the Pont Jacques Chaban Delmas has become an integral part of Bordeaux’s skyline and a symbol of its modernity. This vertical-lift bridge connects the city’s left and right banks, forging a vital link between the river’s two shores. Crafted with meticulous precision, the bridge boasts remarkable functionality and structure. Here are some information about this incredible architecture for you.

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The Story of Pont Jacques Chaban Delmas, the Vertical Bridge in Bordeaux

The Pont Jacques Chaban Delmas, also known as the Chaban Delmas Bridge, is a vertical-lift bridge located in Bordeaux, France. It spans the Garonne River and connects the left bank of Bordeaux to the right bank. The bridge was named after Jacques Chaban-Delmas, a former French Prime Minister and Mayor of Bordeaux.

Construction of Pont Jacques Chaban Delmas

The construction of the bridge began in 2009, with completion in 2012. It was inaugurated on March 16, 2013. The Pont Jacques Chaban Delmas was designed by the French engineering firm BDI (Bureau d’études Greisch) and the architect Michel Virlogeux, who is also known for his work on the Millau Viaduct in France.

Pont Jacques Chaban Delmas: An Architectural Gem

The Pont Jacques Chaban Delmas has a total length of 575 meters (1,886 feet). The main span, which is the portion of the bridge that can be lifted, has a length of 110 meters (361 feet).

As one of the tallest vertical-lift bridges in Europe, the bridge has a height of 77 meters (253 feet) when fully raised. The lift span of the bridge can be raised vertically to allow large ships to pass underneath.

pont jacques chaban delmas vertival bridge in Bordeaux

The lifting mechanism is controlled by a hydraulic system located in the bridge’s central pylon. It plays a crucial role in improving the transportation infrastructure of Bordeaux by easing traffic congestion and providing a direct link between the two banks of the Garonne River. Widely regarded as an architectural and engineering gem, it has become an iconic landmark of the city.

Primarily used for both vehicular and pedestrian traffic, the bridge offers panoramic views of Bordeaux and its surroundings from its pedestrian walkways.