Grimshaw, in collaboration with Ingérop, has been selected by the cities of Noisy-le-Grand and Neuilly-sur-Marne to design a pedestrian and bicycle bridge over the Marne River, connecting the two municipalities. A strategic link in the Île-de-France Cycling Network (VIF), this structure bridges the major geographical divide between the two banks. It promotes active mobility and offers a low-carbon alternative to cars.
The bridge’s location, east of the existing road bridge, includes a two-way bike path and a dedicated pedestrian path, with a focus on clarity and the separation of traffic flows. An inclusive design will ensure the structure enables easy access for all users, particularly those with limited mobility. The structure will be designed to integrate into the RD970 without disrupting traffic – a considered urban integration.
“Our approach aims to prioritize integration into the landscape, respecting the topography and natural heritage of the Marne riverbanks.” states Alice Barrois, architect and director of the Grimshaw Paris office. “We propose to treat this structure as a fluid link between Noisy-le-Grand and Neuilly-sur-Marne. It meets the technical requirements for mobility while seeking an architectural style capable of enriching users’ daily experience.”
The project’s success depends on careful consideration of the site’s riverine and heritage constraints. The design complies with the requirements of Voies Navigables de France (VNF), ensuring optimal navigation conditions, while the placement of the structure has been carefully studied, particularly where river supports are present, to preserve hydraulic balance and ensure consistency with the existing bridge.
The project blends harmoniously with the existing surroundings, including the Square de l’Eau, the bird sanctuary, and the “La Guinguette” establishment. Carried out in consultation with the Architectes des Bâtiments de France (ABF), this project preserves the integrity of underground utility networks and the stability of neighbouring civil engineering structures. By enhancing the continuity of regional bike routes, this footbridge will ultimately serve as a key piece of infrastructure supporting the sustainable transition toward sustainable mobility in eastern Île-de-France.
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