Ronstan Tensile Architecture recently collaborated with Suffolk Construction, Cianbro Fabrication and Capone Iron to provide 24 custom 1 1/4″ (32mm) galvanized coating stay cables along with approximately 400, 3/16″ (5mm) railing infill cables for an elegant and slender cable stayed bridge which was recently finished as part of the Revere Transit and Streetscape Project.
This installation was conceived as part of a redevelopment plan for the areas surrounding the Blue Line Wonderland Station. The Markey Bridge is the first cable stayed pedestrian-only bridge in Massachusetts and it has already become an important link between the train station and Revere Beach: “America’s First Public Beach” established in 1896.
The main span of the bridge crossing Ocean Boulevard is 107’ (32.5 m) and its overall length is 151′ (46m), terminating on a plaza that hosts community activities. The design by Miguel Rosales of Rosales and Partners ensured an impressive visual statement from a distance providing enhanced and open views of the Atlantic Ocean. The 52′ (16m) tall outward-inclined bridge towers frame the access to the beach and its historic pavilions.
All Ronstan Tensile Architecture components are tapered and angled by design which allows for unique perspectives from several vantage points. The steel components have been treated with a duplex hot-dip galvanizing process to protect them from exposure to the marine environment. The walking surface, which is 12’ (3.5m) wide, has been defined with stainless steel railings that complement the inclination of the towers.
A mixture of Standard Balustrade Cables and energy efficient LED aesthetic lighting has been integrated into the railings enhancing the appearance of the crossing at night. Pedestrian traffic between the transit facility and the beach has increased substantially since the bridge opening with a new hotel planned to open adjacent to the landmark in the near future. The Markey Bridge has become a new symbol of the City of Revere and source of pride to the community.
