Harmonious bridge design in New York: Sentry Bridge
Schlaich Bergermann Partner and Snøhetta complete a new bridge in Watkins Glen State Park.
1A new architectural marvel
Schlaich Bergermann Partner and Snøhetta have replaced an aging bridge in Watkins Glen State Park, located in New York's Finger Lakes region. The new bridge, named Sentry Bridge, consists of a steel half-arch mounted on one side of a gorge, cantilevering 14 meters to the other side. Positioned among the park's winding, mossy trails, the bridge overlooks a low riverbed at the base of a waterfall, marking the beginning of the gorge path and setting 'a tone for adventure.'
2Design respectful of nature
The bridge honors the gorge's history and craft traditions while protecting unique cliff and creek ecosystems. According to Snøhetta project director Matt McMahon, the bridge 'heightens the experience of stone and water.' It frames views of surrounding waterfalls and enhances awareness of mist and shifting light. Serving as the entrance to the park's gorge path, the bridge is designed to immerse visitors in the natural beauty of the area from the very start of their journey.
3Built with local materials
The bridge features a locally fabricated stainless steel structure. The main components were prefabricated and carefully slotted into the narrow site using cranes. Final touches included black locust wood rails, rough-sawn hemlock concrete, and a bluestone landing. To celebrate regional heritage, bronze castings of local flora and fauna—including an endangered dragonfly, a rare plant, and a model of the historic arch bridge—were placed throughout the site, encouraging visitors to pause and examine these details.
4Minimal environmental impact
Michael Stein, managing director of Schlaich Bergermann Partner, stated that the bridge 'demonstrates how thoughtful engineering can support both performance and experience.' By developing a lightweight, cantilevered structure that could be prefabricated and installed with minimal disturbance to the gorge, the team created a resilient crossing that responds to the site's environmental sensitivities. This approach enhances the journey through one of New York's most remarkable landscapes while preserving its natural integrity.
5Other notable pedestrian bridges
Recent pedestrian bridge projects include a footbridge in France spanning a 19th-century viaduct over the River Tarn and a low-lying bridge over a Belgian river. These structures, like Sentry Bridge, showcase how modern engineering and design can harmonize with natural environments. The Sentry Bridge stands out as a prime example of sustainable and aesthetically pleasing infrastructure, blending functionality with environmental consciousness.
6Project team and collaborators
The bridge project was overseen by the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation. Schlaich Bergermann Partner led the bridge design and engineering, while Snøhetta served as the design architect and landscape architect. Additional contributions came from Lu Engineers (civil and environmental engineering), Old Structures Engineering (historic preservation), Moniteurs Communication Design (wayfinding), and Langan (geotechnical engineering). Construction was carried out by Twin Tier Constructors, with various local fabricators supplying materials.
7Local economic benefits
The bridge's construction supported the regional economy through the use of local materials and labor. Steel fabrication was handled by LMC Industrial Contractors in Dansville, bronze castings by Erie Bronze Aluminium and Matthews International, and woodwork by Brooklyn-based Tri-Lox. These collaborations not only ensured high-quality craftsmanship but also reinforced the project's economic sustainability, benefiting local businesses and workers throughout the construction process.
8An architectural and engineering triumph
Sentry Bridge stands as proof of how engineering and architecture can work in harmony with nature. Beyond providing a functional crossing, it offers visitors an unforgettable experience. Situated in one of New York's most stunning landscapes, the bridge represents a masterpiece where sustainable design meets innovative engineering. This project may serve as inspiration for future infrastructure projects aiming to balance human needs with environmental preservation.