Drawings of pedestrian Peace Bridge released

A tubular, covered bridge for pedestrians and cyclists will span Calgary's Bow River, according to newly released architectural drawings.

The Peace Bridge's design by award-winning Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava was posted on the City of Calgary's website Tuesday.

The footbridge for pedestrians and bicycles will be west of Prince's Island Park and connect Eau Claire to Sunnyside. It will be just over six metres wide, covered for year-round use and lit at night.

Mayor Dave Bronconnier revealed the name of the $22-million bridge Monday.

Peace Bridge alludes to its link to Peace Park at Seventh Street S.W. on the south side of the Bow River, as well as its future location along Memorial Drive, which was named in honour of soldiers killed in the First World War, he said.

"It is about peace and that's something that Canadians are known globally for," said Bronconnier. "Peace Bridge really connects with what Canada's military speaks of, what Memorial Drive represents, and that is that people who have given the ultimate sacrifice should be remembered."

Council approved spending $25 million in September 2008 to design and construct the footbridge. The funding, from provincial infrastructure grants, includes a contingency fund and project administration and covers the costs of a conceptual design for a second bridge at the west end of St. George's Island.

Ald. Ric McIver has tried to persuade council to scrap the plan.

The bridge is scheduled to be completed in late 2010. Bronconnier has said the pedestrian span is a necessity that will be used by more than 5,000 people daily.