A New Footbridge Over the Rivière Chassé

In the heart of the city of Sainte-Marie, the Chassé River separates a residential area to the north from institutional, educational, and sports facilities to the south. Without a direct pedestrian link, residents had to go around to go from one to the other. The new footbridge creates this link at a location with major constraints: steep topography, a wetland, and existing mountain bike trails that need to be integrated. The scope of the project goes beyond simply providing a crossing. It includes a ramp that meets universal accessibility requirements, a network of walking trails with stairs, two lookout points, a rest and parking area, and an interpretive walking trail along the edge of the school grounds.

A Living Material

The architectural solution lies in a single material and a design approach. Corten steel gives the structure its identity: it clads the guardrails, which are extended by a load-bearing structure and steel handrails. This choice anchors the structure in its wooded surroundings and maintains a formal coherence among the various elements. Corten steel transforms over time: exposed to air and rain, it develops a protective patina whose hue—ranging from copper tones to deep browns—tells the story of the site and its climate. The access ramp is treated as a sculptural object, with planters integrated directly into the structure and the landings offering successive views of the landscape. The footbridge’s perforated panels allow the user to maintain visual contact with the river while ensuring their safety.

A Nature Trail for the Neighborhood

Here, the project was designed with real and everyday uses in mind: students crossing the area, cyclists using the trails, and local families. The viewing platforms mark intentional stopping points along a route designed to encourage visitors to slow down and take in the view. The integration of modular exhibit stands made of perforated Corten steel provides the city with an adaptable tool to animate the corridor. The project thus lays the foundation for a public space that belongs as much to the local area as it does to its users.