Design Team Selected for 16 Tech Bridge Project
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As a subscriber you can listen to articles at work, in the car, or while you work out. Subscribe Now16 Tech Community Corp. in Indianapolis has selected a design team for the signature piece of the $500 million 16 Tech Innovation District. The nonprofit, which oversees development of the project, says Germany-based schlaich bergermann will lead the team in collaboration with Practice for Architecture and Urbanism in New York to design the $14.5 million bridge that will connect the district to the city’s research corridor, including medical and education campuses.
The bridge will span Fall Creek from 10th Street and Riley Hospital Drive. 16 Tech says the project will serve as an architectural centerpiece for the city.
sbp was selected from a group of six finalists for the project. The 40-year-old firm has a history of notable bridge projects, including six bridges for the Ports Landing development in Toronto and a pedestrian bridge for the Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Centennial Park in Buffalo, New York.
“sbp assembled a cohesive and diverse team that integrates engineering, architectural design thinking and innovative community engagement,” Bob Coy, chief executive officer of 16 Tech, said in a news release. “The sbp team shares our vision to create an emblem of innovation for downtown Indianapolis, and we are excited to partner together.”
In addition to PAU, 16 Tech says minority, disadvantaged, or women-owned or led businesses make up more than 50% of the design contract. Several Indianapolis firms are included, such as People for Urban Progress, CTL Engineering, and Circle Design Group.
The design team will begin a nine-month community engagement process early next year. 16 Tech says the effort will include opportunities for stakeholder input and feedback.
“I am excited for the design of the 16 Tech bridge to begin and for the communities around 16 Tech to have an active voice in the process,” said Vop Osili, president of the Indianapolis City-County Council, who represents the district in which 16 Tech is located. “The sbp team demonstrated a clear commitment to community engagement and diversity in their overall project approach, and the design process will engage surrounding communities so neighbors are heard and welcomed in the final product.”
Funding for the bridge project comes from the city, as well as a grant from Indianapolis-based Lilly Endowment Inc. 16 Tech says the project is expected to be complete by the end of 2023.
In February, 16 Tech Chief Operating Officer Emily Krueger appeared on Inside INdiana Business with Gerry Dick to talk about the project, which she called “much more than a physical structure.” You can watch the full interview in the video below: