Sign here to ask New Hampshire government leaders to require the reconstruction of the Memorial Bridge not cut corners on design and add aesthetic elements to the bridge that will honor its history as a dominant, appealing landmark for the Seacoast – for less than one quarter of one percent of the project cost.
For 85 years, the Memorial Bridge, connecting Portsmouth, New Hampshire and Kittery, Maine, has not only served as a means of transportation; it became an exceptional gateway. Now that the bridge is in need of replacement, we find the arcs and sweeps of the original bridge added character and are markedly absent in the proposed design.
The design/build team being vetted to initiate the replacement bridge succeeded in terms of successful engineering and function. However, the aesthetic of the proposed design is utilitarian. The lack of character diminishes this symbol. Without this intrigue, this dominant structure will lose its current appeal.
This petition suggests a design development proposal: specifically, a series of non-structural cables that harkens back to the historic design without mimicking it. Bridge consultants have vetted this development proposal and believe that this proposed addition will not add to construction time and only 0.25% of construction cost.
We implore citizens of New Hampshire, Maine, and all who value historical significance and the impact of artistic appeal to sign this petition. If we are to be gazing upon this replacement for the next 85+ years, we are hopeful it can be something that, with care, can be worthy of being a new public icon.
