Futuristic path improves access to Luxembourg’s Museum of Modern Art

For both cyclists and pedestrians

A new above-ground cycling and walking path will cross Luxembourg’s Parc des Trois Glands. A grouping of architects impressed the jury with their unusual artistic design, which blends perfectly with the surroundings of the park in Kirchberg. Their conception was presented on Wednesday in the presence of the national ministers of culture and economy.

Riding in style among nature

Earlier this week, a partnership consisting of Marc Mimram Ingénierie, Marc Mimram Architecture & Assocciés et Tatiana Fabeck Architectes was pronounced the winner of a public competition for the design of a pedestrian and cycle bridge connecting Avenue John F. Kennedy to Parc des Trois Glands in Luxembourg City. The latter is located in the Kirchberg business district, behind the Philharmonic and the Museum of Modern Art (MUDAM) and offers a great panoramic view over the Old town of the capital.

The concept of a two-way footbridge suitable for cycling was presented in the presence of Minister of Mobility and Public Works François Bausch, and Minister of Culture, Sam Tanson. The project is regarded as an opportunity to increase the visibility and traffic to the site, by facilitating soft mobility. Another essential condition met by the winning concept was the fact that it preserves a national forest by cutting a minimum number of trees.

The jury appreciated the flexibility of the footbridge layout, making its access easily adaptable without compromising the existing technical infrastructures or the architectural design. Furthermore, the choice of materials was also considered particularly judicious as it highlights the natural elements with mirror-type polished stainless steel for the load-bearing elements and for the cladding, with the exception of the deck covering which is made of light concrete. All these qualities will make the bridge unique in Luxembourg.

"The footbridge is a shortcut to culture and the World Heritage site. It will also contribute to improving access to cultural offerings, a cornerstone of cultural policy and a priority for this ministry," as Minister Tanson was quoted saying in a press release.

The total cost of the project is of 4 million euros, funded under the Kirchberg Urbanization and Development Fund. The construction is set to start this autumn and last for 18 months, until spring 2023.