Beyond its sophisticated structure , the bridge is a vital and longawaited link for the university . “ The housing and medical facilities on east campus are now finally connected to everything on the west campus ,” says King . “ The loop road was always in the long-range plan , but this was the missing link .”
Dedicated lanes for pedestrians and bikes will keep students off congested and circuitous roadways , providing not only a safer commute but a faster one , too . “ The bridge will cut travel time down by a third — a two-minute bike ride or 10-minute walk ,” adds King .
And it ' s only fitting that this physical expression of UC San Diego should be designed by a Triton . Structural engineering alumnus Tony Sanchez , MS ’ 95 , PhD ’ 98 leads bridge projects for the firm
Moffatt & Nickel , and initially proposed the unique design . “ It ’ s a concrete arch , so it ’ s structurally efficient , robust and durable . And rather than a standard freeway bridge , it has a design quality on par with the architecture on campus and the cutting-edge research UCSD is known for ,” says Sanchez . “ We even used a structural refinement that increased efficiency and reduced construction cost — something my old professors at UCSD would be proud of ! Leading this project for my alma mater has been a great experience on many levels , and one of the highlights of my career .”
— Malinda Danziger ’ 00
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