The Helix Bridge, previously known as the Double Helix Bridge, is a pedestrian bridge linking Marina Centre with Marina South in the Marina Bay area in Singapore. It was officially opened on April 24, 2010 at 9 pm. The bridge complements other major development projects planned in the area, including the highly-anticipated Integrated Resort Marina Bay Sands, Singapore Flyer, Gardens by the Bay and the 438,000 m² business and financial centre which will be ready by 2012.
Canopies (made of fritted-glass and perforated steel mesh) are incorporated along parts of the inner spiral to provide shade for pedestrians. The bridge has five viewing platforms sited at strategic locations which provide stunning views of the Singapore skyline and events taking place within Marina Bay. At night, the bridge will be illuminated by a series of lights that highlight the double-helix structure, thereby creating a special visual experience for the visitors.
With the newly launched circle line, visitor can easliy reach Helix bridge by alighting at Promenade station. Upon reaching the area, i notice that constructions are still going on and can see tower cranes and heavy vehicles from far. Surprisingly, the Marina Bay Sands hotel's outlook from far is not that impressive compared to hotels like Raffles Hotel, Fullerton or Goodwoodpark. However with Helix bridge in the picture, I will look forward to the completion of the rest of the Marina Bay Sands premise and is confident that it will be another iconic view which Singapore can offer.
Helix bridge is situated beside the marina floating platform. I wonder will this bridge be open to public during national day because this place is definitely the best place to capture the perfect shot of fireworks during the celebration. I think the bridge is constructed with only metal and no concrete is involve? This is because the whole bridge shook, twice, when two lady runners were doing their casual jog on the bridge. This causes some of my photos to be blurred. -_-"
I was actually hoping that the illuminating lights can switch to some other colors other than orange or red because they are not my favourites. I definitely remember seeing blue, green or purple in some photos. However that did not happen. I wonder was it due to a weekday. Maybe it is a Tuesday and it only flashes red and orange. Oh well, maybe i will try my luck during one of the weekends.
The thing i felt lacking from the bridge are - seats, which i can find none. The place is windy, spacious, sheltered and offers great view of our CBD area. However the last thing i hope to see are people sitting on the ground of the viewing platform and occupying it as their own private area.
Here are some facts on Helix Bridge:
1. The bridge uses a special duplex stainless steel, commonly used in the chemical industry to transport highly corrosive materials. It was picked because of its ability to provide high structural strength and minimise maintenance.
2.If all the steel tubes forming the major and minor helix are laid end to end, they will measure 2,250 metres long, almost the length of the 2.4 kilometre fitness run.
3. The bridge weighs about 1,700 tonnes, equivalent to about 1,130 saloon cars.
4. The structure of the bridge is designed to support up to 16,000 persons at any one time.
5. Recreational pleasure boats can cruise through Marina Bay and Marina Channel as the bridge is built with a height clearance of 8.8 metres above water.
6. The major and minor helix, which spiral in opposite directions, have an overall diameter of 10.8 metres and 9.4 metres respectively, or about three-storeys high.
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