The Peace Bridge is a prominent pedestrian and cyclist bridge spanning the Bow River in Calgary, Alberta. Designed by renowned Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava, it officially opened to the public on March 24, 2012. The bridge connects downtown Calgary on the south bank with the community of Sunnyside on the north, integrating seamlessly into the city’s extensive river pathway system.
Architecturally, the Peace Bridge is notable for its unique double-helix tubular truss design, constructed from red and white steel—a nod to the colors of both the Canadian and Calgary flags. The bridge measures approximately 130.6 meters in length and 6.2 meters in width, accommodating separate lanes for pedestrians and cyclists. Its design intentionally avoids the use of piers in the water to minimize environmental impact and adheres to height restrictions due to its proximity to the City/Bow River Heliport.
Since its inauguration, the Peace Bridge has become an iconic symbol of Calgary’s dedication to innovative urban design and public art. Its central location and striking appearance make it a popular spot for both residents and visitors, offering panoramic views of the downtown skyline, the Bow River, and the surrounding natural landscapes.
Despite initial controversies regarding its cost and the decision to commission an international architect, the bridge has been embraced by the community and is now considered one of Calgary’s most photographed landmarks. It accommodates thousands of users daily, serving as a vital link in the city’s active transportation network.
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