Mezzovico Pedestrian and Bicycle Footbridge Renovation Enhancing Cycle Connectivity in Switzerland

The Mezzovico Pedestrian and Bicycle Footbridge Renovation, designed by Enrico Sassi Architetto, revitalizes a vital cycle-pedestrian link in Mezzovico-Vira, Switzerland, connecting the two banks of the Vedeggio River. Situated along the national N3 cycle path North-South axis, this renovation strengthens both functional safety and aesthetic appeal, blending modern engineering with respect for the natural landscape.

Structural Design and Engineering

The footbridge’s load-bearing structure features two parallel, congruent trusses connected beneath the walkway by a reticular support plane. Constructed entirely from square-section RHS steel profiles, the trusses exhibit precision engineering: the upper chord and ribs measure 120 x 120 mm, while the diagonals are 80 x 80 mm. The upper chord forms a circumferential arch with a 76.3 m radius at intrados, with truss heights ranging from 100 mm to 190 mm.

Previously, the bridge walkway had a deteriorated wooden surface and a non-standard stainless steel cable guardrail. The renovation focused on enhancing structural integrity, user safety, and long-term durability while retaining transparency and ventilation.

Renovation and Material Strategy

Key renovation measures included the replacement of the existing walkway, removal of horizontal stainless steel cables, and infill of triangular voids with natural oxidised steel plates. Micro-perforated sheet metal was employed for the infill, maximizing transparency and allowing natural ventilation within the walkway interior.

The main trusses were treated and coated in a warm rust-colored finish, harmonizing with the surrounding landscape. The new walking surface comprises 11 precast concrete slabs with high frost resistance and hydrophobic treatment, designed to withstand de-icing salts. The slabs feature a rough, non-slip texture achieved through surface washing combined with formwork retardant application. Laid on neoprene strips applied to the side support profiles, the light yellow slabs—created using Saltrio limestone aggregates—weigh approximately 16 tonnes in total, offering both durability and aesthetic warmth.

Harmonious Integration with Nature

The renovation emphasizes context-sensitive design, combining robust engineering with material choices that blend with the natural environment. Warm tones of rusted steel and light yellow paving create a welcoming, sustainable, and safe route for cyclists and pedestrians alike, reinforcing the footbridge as a vital part of Switzerland’s national cycle path network.

Technical and Collaborative Excellence

This project was realized in collaboration with Coloriamo SA (painting) and Consorzio Ravetta SA – Larghi SA (construction), with photography by Alberto Canepa and Enrico Sassi. Completed in 2024, the renovation exemplifies modern pedestrian bridge design that balances structural precision, safety standards, and sensitive landscape integration.