85
YEAR
WHERE:
Nelson Mandela Bridge WHEN:
20 JULY 2003
A
joint project with other spheres of government, the bridge ensures access to the newly developed sections south of Johannesburg. Opened by Mr Nelson Mandela in 2003, the three span bridge connects West Street in Newtown with Bertha Street in Braamfontein by straddling the Kazerne railway marshalling yards. The structure is held in place by 52 diagonal cable stays attached to concrete-filled pylons. At 284 metres, it is the longest bridge of its kind in Southern Africa. Bridges are historically significant and hugely symbolic. They are architectural wonders that have come to symbolise the heroic overcoming of incredible obstacles to bring people together. In this sense, the Nelson Mandela bridge is an appropriate symbol of the rebuilding of our nation, encapsulating the role of Nelson Mandela in the triumph of South Africa’s transformation. “Having this magnificent bridge named after me makes me feel very humble indeed. I accept this honour not just for myself, but for everyone who was involved in our struggle for freedom”. Nelson Mandela 20 July, 2003.