Petit quai footbridge
Morez and the Bienne River
Morez grew up around the Bienne River, whose strong flow enabled the development of local industries. Initially focused on forging iron wires and nails, the production gradually shifted to clocks, enamel works and finally eyeglass frames. Its industrial past affected heavily the Bienne River, making it inaccessible and ecologically damaged.
Today, the so-called urban development project "Échappée Bienne" is giving the town a fresh start. It aims to redefine and enhance the river through its renaturalization and restoration of its banks. Designed around a 4-kilometer soft mobility path along the Bienne, it includes the construction of four footbridges. Beyond the function of crossing the river, these structures are designed as artistic features that improve mobility and create new landmarks reconnecting the town with its river.
A sensitive and poetic footbridge
The central idea is to offer a glimpse of the Bienne.
A special stop-over with privileged views, where you can appreciate its wildlife, its flora, the sound of its flow, the colour of its water, and its urban and natural surroundings.
A new landmark allowing a crossing, but above all, an invitation to a dream.
A footbridge with elegant and original lines that fits seamlessly to the Échappée Bienne project.
A design of absolute delicacy and simplicity, discreet and free from unnecessary details, enhancing the Bienne.
From the riverbanks, the footbridge appears as a simple hyphen inserted in the urban landscape – both minimal and timeless – at the same time attractive and surprising with its unique geometry. More than just a crossing art work, it becomes a belvedere offering stunning views above the Bienne. Benches are integrated to invite people to stop, relax and feel the river.
Thus, the footbridge becomes a vibrant space for daily life and a place of contemplation.
