At more than 1,700 feet in length, the Tilikum Crossing, Bridge of the People, is the only bridge of its kind in the United States. The bridge carries MAX trains, buses, streetcars, cyclists and pedestrians.

The bridge design has a 780-foot main span with two 390-foot end spans that used the segmental concrete cantilever construction method using travelers. Segments are 75-feet wide and 35-feet long. The bridge superstructure is post-tensioned longitudinally and transversely. The structure’s tower height had been limited by the selection committee to 100 feet above the deck, putting it in the same tower height category as extradosed type bridges. The design included 14-foot bike-pedestrian paths on each side as well as belvederes at the towers to allow people to stop and enjoy the bridge's panoramic views.

HNTB was responsible for initial bridge type study, conceptual and preliminary design, preparation of plans and a request for proposals for the design-build contract. In addition, HNTB provided parallel final design and services during construction that involved running bridge erection models based on the contractor’s construction sequence and conducted reviews of all contractor submittals to the owner.

The iconic bridge type concept met the client’s aggressive schedule and the needs of the community and was delivered under estimate and on time.

  • New design-build bridge constructed over the Willamette River, designed to carry light rail trains, buses, cyclists, pedestrians and streetcars
  • Bridge includes rail for the trackway, overhead electrical system that powers the light rail vehicles, and barriers between the trackway, bridge cables and the multi-use paths
  • There are 178 LED lights aesthetically placed around the bridge and change colors based on the Willamette River’s speed, height and water temperature.

Location: Portland, OR

Client: Tri-County Metropolitan Transportation District of Oregon (TriMet)