Timber Bridge at Zwolle Station, Netherlands

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Timber Bridge at Zwolle Station

The engineering office Miebach, based in Lohmar, played a key role in the development and implementation of the project as the responsible structural designer. Together with the landscape architects Karres en Brands and the office IPV Delft, they developed the vision of a so-called “Elevated Street”: far more than just a transportation facility, but rather a public space with a park-like character.

The bridge consists of glued-laminated timber beams and combines a sustainable timber structure with innovative steel technology. Trees, seating areas, green spaces, and a smart water management system create an attractive place to linger on the bridge above the railroad tracks. At the same time, the structure fulfills the highest standards for durability, fire resistance, and user comfort.

The design and assembly of the structure were particularly challenging. It was necessary to construct the main load-bearing structure within a specified closure window while train operations continued. Thanks to comprehensive digital design, BIM modeling, and precise prefabrication of all structural components, the complex installation was successfully carried out. The four main glued-laminated timber beams span lengths of up to 34 m (111.55 ft) and were hoisted into place as part of a tightly scheduled installation process.

The footbridge exemplifies a new generation of infrastructure projects: it combines urban development, climate protection, and engineering expertise into a sustainable, holistic solution. With its extraordinary architecture and high degree of prefabrication, the bridge sets new standards for urban timber bridge construction and underscores the capabilities of modern timber construction technologies.

For the engineering office Miebach, the project is impressive proof of how innovative structural design and interdisciplinary collaboration can transform ambitious visions into built reality. The new footbridge in Zwolle not only connects two city districts but also shows the potential of sustainable timber structures.