Photo credit: Paul Zizka
The Institution of Structural Engineers (IStructE) recently announced the winners of its Structural Awards 2023, which celebrate some of the world?s most impressive structural engineering achievements.
The coveted “2023 Supreme Award for Structural Engineering Excellence” was awarded to Canadian structural engineering and timber construction firm StructureCraft for its work on The Nancy Pauw Bridge in Banff, Alberta. StructureCraft is the main structural engineer, principal contractor, and designer on this project.
The Nancy Pauw Bridge connects Central Park to the Banff Recreation Grounds and gives Banff residents and visitors a new way to experience the Bow River and Rocky Mountain vistas. Similar to its “sister bridge,” the Nancy Pauw Bridge is an 80m clear span over the Bow River. The structure is a shallow, pure arch that was created with stepped Glulam girders and weathering steel haunches. The team designed the bridge to “have no impact on the river’s varied yet delicate ecosystem,” which was achieved with a clear and low-profile span, which blends with the natural surroundings.
In September 2022, a 108-year-old vision was realized for the Town of Banff when the bridge first opened.
Photo credit: Paul Zizka
The award is judged according to four core attributes: planet, people, process and profession. This year?s overall winner encapsulated IStructE?s focus on the societal and environmental role of str...