Modern Green Roof technology combined with a Blue Roof to minimize artificial irrigation, to maximize water retention and enable visitors to cross a busy four-lane highway without leaving the lush greening of a park.
The Garden Bridge at Universal Studios in Orlando is the first of its kind in Florida. Designed by Miles Architecture Group Inc., Libra Design Group and Green Roof Service LLC, the green bridge creates an innovative connection of Universal City developments. Selected ground covers, shrubs and trees escort pedestrians almost without notice that they are crossing over a busy highway. The distinctive landmark project is engineered with people in mind.
The Garden Bridge at Universal Studios Orlando project is approximately 3,000 sf (145′ x between 18 and 25′ wide).
The bridge is designed to pond water in the granular drainage area to increase the water retention (a blue-green roof combination, Patent hold by Hans Gilgen – 1978 and the first time introduced to North America by Jorg Breuning in 2000).
Unique projects require unique solutions. Keeping the costs for the structure low, the trees are located above the bridge’s pillars. The walkway gently winds up to the bridge and over and is easy accessible for the handicapped or service carts.
The project was possible with an outstanding waterproofing solution by ALT Global. ALT Global meets the FLL requirements for root resistance.
This innovative green roof project is a master piece of teamwork between architects, structural engineers, landscape architects and green roof professionals with an open mind, environmental leadership and common sense.
By Jorg Breuning
Check also the first Green Bridge in the world
