From: Elaine Ostroff
To: Global UD Educator's Network list
Sent: Tuesday, November 26, 2002 12:02 PM
Subject: Fwd: Let's help stopping a wrong bridge in Venice, Italy

Dear Folks on the Global UD Educator's Network list

Maurizio Antoninetti, now from San Diego but originally from Italy, sends this urgent message. If you want to add your voice to this situation, please consider sending a message as noted below.

Thank you,
Elaine Ostroff, Director
Global Universal Design Educator's Network

-------------------------------
Dear colleagues,

Maurizio Antoninetti has sent me the information about the serious problem in Venice with the badly designed bridge.

I have sent the message to about 350 people around the world who are concerned with both good design and good access. I hope that you get many messages of support to tell the City of Venice to stop the construction and redesign the bridge so that it works equally well for ALL users.

The designer Santiago Calatrava must be creative enough to solve this problem in a beautiful structure that everyone can be proud to use. The world is watching and we hope that the City will assure that he responds to the challenge.

When you have more news I will send it to the related networks.

Please send my message to the City of Venice.

Elaine Ostroff, Director
Global Universal Design Educator's Network

From: Cynthia Gracey
Sent: mercoledì 27 novembre 2002 2.53
To: hbgroup@hbgroup.it
Subject: please assure that the bridge in Venice is disability accesable!!

As the population is aging why would you ever consider designing a bridge that would prohibit its use by an aging or disabled population?
Please reconsider your plans

Cynthia Gracey
traveler with a disability

From: Terri O'Hare
Sent: mercoledì 27 novembre 2002 2.25
To: hbgroup@hbgroup.it
Subject: Access to the beauty of Venice

Dear City Officials:

While the rest of the world has made vast improvement in providing all people, regardless of physical capabilities, access to the the important sites and treasures of our cities, Venice seems fixed on a position to prevent those with disabilities, (temporary or permanent) access across a bridge on the Canal Grande.

In the US, where I live, there are approximately 54 million people in the country with disabilities, from wheelchair bound to cane assistance to blindness to slight walking issues.

We are the largest minority in the US, a much underreported statistic.

Would the administrators of the City of Venice consider building and approving a bridge which Japanese, Africans, women or the elderly could not use? Of course not. Yet you are doing worse, by ignoring the requirements of perhaps your largest minority group. In the US, all of these ethnic groups are smaller than the disabled.

Additionally, mothers of children in strollers, young people with crutches from sports injuries and bicyclists, all benefit from smooth ramp access, in addition to those with permanent physical issues.

Our ADA laws have allowed historic structures to remain esthetically accurate yet able to be entered by all. In your city, I would have to hail a cab to cross this new bridge, which equals discrimination. I hope you will challenge your talented team of designers to arrive at a solution which will not ridicule Venice throughout the world, and solve all the access issues of the bridge. For everyone.

Sincerely,

Terri O'Hare
O'Hare Communications, Inc
Vero Beach, Florida

From: Arezu Movahed
Sent: martedì 26 novembre 2002 23.43
To: hbgroup@hbgroup.it
Subject: Dear City of Venice, and Architect Santiago Calatrava,

Dear City of Venice, and Architect Santiago Calatrava,

I read about the design of the new upcoming bridge to be built over the Canal Grande. It is very surprising to know that in the 21st century, the new design of the bridge is in violation of Italian laws as well as international practice on accessibility and accessible design. Venice is an international city with thousands of visitors every year, many of whom are on wheelchairs or have children on strollers or are somehow in need of getting around via ramps instead of stairs.

As a space evaluator, and an environmental design professional, as well as someone who admires good public space design, I urge you to consider the design of the new bridge in Venice and make sure that it has ramps whihc will make it accesible to ALL USERS.

Sincerely,
Arezu Movahed, Ph.D.
Program Director
Senior Adult Learning Center
Institute on Aging
Portland State University

From: Sam Woodward
Sent: martedì 26 novembre 2002 23.21
To: hbgroup@hbgroup.it
Subject: bridge

Dear Sirs,
This letter is to protest a new pedestrian bridge being built in Venice that will automatically exclude anyone with a motor disability from using it. Steps??!! Let's use our heads and install ramps so that everybody can use it.

Thank you,
Sam Woodward
Woodward Architecture

I'm George Balsley and I'm an architect working with a small firm in Amherst, MA and am associated with Adaptive Environments of Boston. One of the many goals of this particular organization is to push the concept of universal design (design for all).

After reading the description of the Venice bridge in the letter, I was shocked by ù the bridge designer's ignorance of the disabled's needs. When this bridge is completed, sans the accessibility features, it will be used only by the healthy people, meaning that most of the population which will be disabled at one point of time (sprained ankle, broken leg, old age, etc will not be able to use it and that's not even including those on wheelchairs. Also many wheelchair users and disabled have friends that are healthy but together, they wouldn't be able to go over the bridge!

The City of Venice is in effect saying that the disabled population is not an important segement of society and they should be ignored. If the bridge is completed without the modifications, this city faces the inevitable lawsuits that will surely come and they will spend millions of lira to defend themselves and in the end, the city will not win. When that happens, it poses a terrible situation forcing the City of Venice to spend additional monies to tear up portions of the bridge and making it accessible.

I would think it would be much wiser for the City of Venice to call a halt to its construction and come up with an accessible design that would satisfy the needs of the disabled. To do that, the city will find it much cheaper than to let it be finished and then face the lawsuits and then go back to repairing.

Although I've never visited Venice, my mother did and she absolutely loved it. My wife and I are including this great city in our plans when we go to Italy in the near future. When I get there, I hope to see this modified and accessible bridge and walk over it.

From: Christa Vragel
Sent: martedì 26 novembre 2002 22.47
To: hbgroup@hbgroup.it
Subject: re: a new bridge in Venice designed by the award-winning architect Santiago Calatrava,

"a letter addressed to the City of Venice asking to stop the construction and to reconsider the project original design"
Registering support for this initiative.

Christa Vragel
Newschool of Architecture + Design
San Diego, California
USA

From: G. Wilson
Sent: martedì 26 novembre 2002 22.18
To: hbgroup@hbgroup.it
Subject: proposed bridge

Having vacationed in Venice with my husband three years ago, I know how inaccessible this beautiful city can be. My husband was on crutches and trying to walk around the city proved to be a nightmare with the numerous steps to the numerous bridges, a wheelchair was out of the question! As a result, he spent much of our time in Venice sitting in St. Marks Square, while my daughter and I toured. The water ferries provided some relief, but my husband was denied access to the wonderful little nooks and crannies of the city. The city now has an opportunity to create a pedestrian bridge that can be enjoyed by all. Hoping to return some day to Venice,

Gloria Wilson

From: Shane Holten
Sent: giovedì 28 novembre 2002 21.44
To: hbgroup@hbgroup.it
Subject: Stopping the building of an inaccessible bridge in Venice, Italy

From the perspective of an Accessibility Planner, working here in Toronto, Ontario - Canada, where the building access laws and codes are minimal, the building of the "Calatrava" bridge without consideration of the needs of all users is unimaginable. From the perspective of a human being, the building of the "Calatrava" bridge in this manner is simply stupid and a violation of human rights. Considering a universal design approach to the building of this bridge is essential and will enhance its overall esthetic. Designers, planners, architects, and builders around the world know this for the most part, I hope Mr. Calatrava will soon learn he has erred in his ways and the construction of the bridge will come to a halt, before it is too late!
sincerely,

Shane Holten

Shane Holten, M.E.S.
President, SPH Planning & Consulting Ltd.
166 Wilson Avenue, Suite 403
Toronto

From: Hubert Froyen
Sent: domenica 1 dicembre 2002 19.18
To: hbgroup@hbgroup.it
Subject: Accessible new bridge for Venice


Dear Italian colleagues,

In an e-mail letter from American 'Universal Design' specialists I've read about the new bridge planned for Venice. First of all I want to thank you and to congratulate you for the initiative taken. Indeed it is fully unacceptable to continue in creating 'handicap situations' thus discriminating people. Not only users with physical impairments, such as non-ambulant wheelchair users, but hundreds of everyday users: parents with babies, small children on bikes, people carrying heavy luggagge, older people, the injured etc.will become unneccessarily 'architecturally disabled' as Selwyn Goldsmith calls it. Stop this old fashioned practice and make it a beautiful bridge, a good symbol of civilisation in the year 2003, European Year of People with Disabilities, a powerful statement from a country with such a valuable culture.
Good luck and all the best

prof. H.P. Froyen M.Arch
PHL Department of Architecture
Universitaire Campus, Bldg.E
B 3590 Belgium

Simultaneously I'll forward the message www.hbgroup.it/calatrava <http://www.hbgroup.it/calatrava> to my Belgian colleaugues.

From: Donald Anderson
Sent: venerdì 29 novembre 2002 16.29
To: 'hbgroup@hbgroup.it'
Subject: New pedestrian bridge on Grand canal

I have recently received an email through an access group concerning the design of the new pedestrian bridge over the Grand canal in Venice.

Apparently the architect, Santiago Calatrava, has proposed a design that will exclude many disabled people, particularly those who use wheelchairs. This design has been accepted by the City of Venice, despite the fact that it is in violation of Italian laws on accessibility.

I have been advised that disabled citizens of Venice and surrounding areas have asked that the construction of this bridge be stopped and the project design be reconsidered.

As a disabled person, a wheelchair user and Access Consultant, I would like to lend my support to disabled people in Italy and ask that this act of discrimination be halted and that a fully accessible bridge is built to provide equality of access to all disabled people, citizens and visitors alike.

Any attempt to make Venice more accessible should be welcomed by the City authorities as it would encourage disabled people to visit Venice. I was on holiday with my two daughters in the Lake Garda area a few years ago and I was advised that I should not visit Venice as it was not accessible. This is apparently true and this decision does little to enhance Venice as a potential holiday destination for disabled people.

Donald Anderson
Co-ordinator Information & Development
Centre for Independent Living in Glasgow
117 - 127 Brook Street
Glasgow

From: James Mueller
Sent: lunedì 2 dicembre 2002 14.26
To: hbgroup@hbgroup.it
Subject: bridge accessibility

Dear Colleagues:

I have recently returned from my first visit to Venice, where I stayed at a hotel near the Rialto Bridge. I had the pleasure of seeing many people with disabilities visiting the same sites I enjoyed. On the other hand, there were many other areas that are inaccessible to these visitors, especially because of the design of the Rialto Bridge and other existing bridges. During my stay, I learned of the planned new bridge from a friend living in Venice. I had expected that this new structure would surely address the great need for an accessible canal crossing.

I am alarmed to learn from your letter that this opportunity to bring a far greater level of accessibility to Venice may be forfeited. This would truly be a tragedy, given the importance of accessibility both to visitors and to residents of Venice. Please add my voice to those advocating that this new bridge be made as usable for people with disabilities as it will be to those without disabilities.

James Mueller, IDSA
J.L. Mueller, Inc.
USA

From: Diana Sullivan
Sent: martedì 3 dicembre 2002 17.45
To: 'hbgroup@hbgroup.it'
Subject: Calatrava

It is not surprising that Santiago Calatrava has done it again! He got away with breaking the American laws - the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and our own State Access Code law - Chapter 69. Many of us living in Milwaukee, Wisconsin are very disturbed that the addition to our art museum is a safety hazard to the many people who come to visit. A number of "fixes" have already been made to lessen the likelihood that more people won't be harmed (a number of people have fallen or tripped on curbs and have bumped into the arching spines that hang far lower than the 80" code); but even the fixes are causing people to trip and fall. Access codes are created to protect the rights and safety of all people - the Calatrava design here falls below this standard; and many people are taking the falls because of it. Make sure that qualified people who know about access (not
necessarily the architects) review Calatrava's designs on paper before they are constructed! Also, make sure that you are not "coerced" into accepting a design that does not incorporate respect and honour to all people!

Diana Sullivan
Disability Rights Specialist
IndependenceFirst
600 W. Virginia St.
Milwaukee, WI 53204

From: Paul P. Hogan
Sent: martedì 3 dicembre 2002 23.32
To: hbgroup@hbgroup.it
Subject: The bridge of (more) sighs, Venice

I would like to adhere to your campaign and wish you every success.

Paul P. Hogan
FCSD, FRSA, FIDI, Hon.ANCAD
Founder President
EIDD - European Institute of Design and Disability

From: Richard Duncan
Sent: mercoledì 4 dicembre 2002 14.01
To: hbgroup@hbgroup.it
Subject: Accessibility

I was disturbed and concerned to recently hear of plans to construct a bridge in Venice that would be unusable by many citizens and tourists. As one of the most rapidly aging countries in the world and with millions of tourists visiting Venice each year, one would expect Venice and Italy to be more responsive to the large number of people that would be excluded from use of such a bridge. It is extraordinary to hear of such a project in the 21st Century.

As a professional with 20 years experience in the field, I am confident that an accessible project of equal architectural significance can be created and urge those connected to this endeavor to proceed with such a plan.

Richard Duncan
---
Coordinator of Training
The Center for Universal Design
College of Design
North Carolina State University
50 Pullen Road, Brooks Hall Rm. 104
Campus Box 8613
Raleigh, NC 27695-8613
Information Line: 800-647-6777

From: Shirley Confino-Rehder
Sent: giovedì 12 dicembre 2002 4.55
To: hbgroup@hbgroup.it
Subject: the calatrava bridge

I am shocked! Since moving here we have been to Venice several times and have not seen the construction at all. I have several comments:

First - I have already sent Maurizio's letter to the International American Institute of Architects (AIA). Ray Spano, located in Paris is the President. I have not had a response yet and will forward it to you when, and if, I do.

Second - I am proud to say that I know several of the initial signers of protest. Luigi Biocca and Annalisa Morini. I also know Elaine Ostroff and several of those that have sent out letters. I would like to think there will be more letters of support coming your way. I am a strong advocate of Universal Design, (before it was called Universal Design). This is what I speak on, practice and teach.

Third - I will also send out a copy of the letter to the chapter of AIA that I belong to as well as our main headquarters in Washington DC. I would like to think that you will get more letters of support from there.

Unfortunately most of my email addresses did not travel with me to Italy but I think I can get others to send out letters as well from Canada, South America, England and the US. I will try.

Fourth - I am planning to visit the site this weekend. The design of the bridge may be futuristic but the reality is that it is not for the future. It is avoiding the reality of the growth in the older person, the use of carriages and pushcarts that I have seen in profusion in Venice, and of course, the pedestrian that uses assistive devices to get to their destination.

I would like to know how the architect of this bridge defends the design and the avoidance of public law. Can an injunction be placed on the construction? Does Italian law allow such an action?


Shirley Confino-Rehder CID

From: Shirley Confino-Rehder
Sent: giovedì 12 dicembre 2002 5.50
To: hbgroup@hbgroup.it
Subject: the Calatrava Bridge

To the City of Venice,

I am an American designer, now living in Padova, Italy and have traveled all over the world advocating the Americans With Disabilities Act and Universal Design. I am shocked that your beautiful city, one that people all over the world have visited and continue to dream of visiting and a city that writers and poets, for hundreds of years, have written about, has decided to allow a bridge be built that is ignoring reality.

The population is getting older, have the most discretionary funds to spend and are traveling more; people with disabilities are now able to travel easier and are demanding their civil rights; your city is filled with baby strollers and push carts of the hundreds of vendors that make their living in Venice, and still you are allowing a bridge that has the appearance of the future, to be built, without taking into account the realities of the future.

Accessible design affects everyone. Venice is so difficult for many people to enjoy, why not make it easier? Why are you allowing an additional barrier to be erected when your laws have clearly written that accessibility has to be addressed, when more people are traveling, spending money, and are able to add to your treasury? Does Mr.Santiago Calatrava, the architect, realize that this pedestrian bridge could be an example for the world to use for the future rather than an example of what not to repeat? This is really not a pedestrian bridge, is it?

At this time, when the world is crying out for equality for all, I can not believe that the political powers of Venice are allowing a new barrier to equality be erected. Why doesn't Mr. Calatrava use this opportunity to create a beautiful bridge that everyone can use? Trying to find solutions for additional access that will not be equal access is not the answer. Doing it right the first time, when you have the opportunity, is the right time.

Respectfully yours,

Shirley Confino-Rehder CID

From: Concrete Change
Sent: giovedì 12 dicembre 2002 10.29
To: hbgroup@hbgroup.it
Subject: the bridge

December 12, 2001

To all who have influence in stopping the new bridge designed by Santiago Calatrava with steps as its only means of access:

PLEASE STOP THIS BRIDGE until it is modified to permit equal access to people with mobility impairments. It is a throwback to former times when ignorance suggested that beauty and access were somehow incompatible. Infact, new barriers are ugly to many eyes.

Mr. Calatrava has been hired to design the new symphony hall in my hometown of Atlanta, Georgia. For several months I have been in touch with those in charge of the building process, letting them know that the community expects the letter and the sprit of the Americans with Disabilities Act to be followed. I have recently received a letter from them assuring me that all will be in order. Now that I know he has flouted access in Italy, I must say I am even more nervous than I always am when a new hall goes up in my home town, as I am among the many disabled people who love music and dramas. Mr. Calavera, please know that we expect the Americans with Disabilities Act to be followed down to the last detail in our Symphony Hall, and in particular we demand a variety of seats in all price ranges, with a line of sight equal to that offered non-disabled users, Otherwise, there will be big, big trouble--in the courts, and at the opening, and at the concerts.

The disability rights movement is international. Advocates in Italy: My thoughts are with you and my hope is that city planners, ordinary citizens, building professionals and all will join with you to create a bridge, not a barrier.

Eleanor Smith
Concrete Change
Atlanta Georgia
USA
404-378-7455
"Every New Home Visitable!

From: Javier Romañach
Sent: venerdì 13 dicembre 2002 11.48
To: hbgroup@hbgroup.it
Subject: Ponte di Calatrava

Ciao,

I'd like to express my support to your fight for our rights in the Venice bridge case. ¿what should I do?

Javier Romañach
Foro de Vida Independiente
Madrid, Espagna

From: Bas Treffers
Sent: venerdì 13 dicembre 2002 11.54
To: hbgroup@hbgroup.it
Subject: support

Dear Friends,

I fully support your action,

Bas Treffers
vice-president
EDF - European Disability Forum

From: Stig Langvad
Sent: lunedì 23 dicembre 2002 14.26
To: hbgroup@hbgroup.it
Subject: Accessibility to Cities

ATTN: City of Venice
Santiago Calatrava

When you change your city environments please look for the future - not the past!

Persons with disabilities are entitled to the same rights and possibilities as everyone else.

Plan and adapt your city so it becomes fully accessible.

Stig Langvad
Chairperson
The Danish Council of Organisations of Disabled People

The word is getting out around the world regarding the inaccessibility of the proposed Calatrava bridge. I urge you to reconsider the design of this bridge. Lack of access and hazardous designs for the elderly, people with disabilities as well as children need to be avoided. Design is not more important than access and safety.

Ruth Adix
611 10th St. W. Altoona
WI 54720

You have the ability to change the design so that everyBODY could easily access this addition to your city.
Individuals with disabilities cannot change their BODIES to access this bridge.

Sincerely,

Gail Kolvenbach
Disability Advocate

To whom it May concern,

I am writing from the Untited States. I am a person with a disability and am very disappointed with the proposed accessibility features of the new Bridge in Venice, designed by Santiago Calatrava. Constructing anything new with stairs and having to modify it with a lift system is inexcusable. I am writing in support of the city of Venice looking into ways to eliminate the stairs of this new bridge with a ramp that will make access easier for all, not just those who use wheelchairs. Making the new bridge accessible through ramps will make it easier for parents who have their children in strollers, the elderly who have walking difficulties, and many others, along with those who use wheelchairs. It is good sense to make something accessible from the beginning and a good designer like Calatrava should be able to do this.

Thank you for your time.

From: Shirley Confino-Rehder
Sent: sabato 4 gennaio 2003 5.50
To: hbgroup@hbgroup.it
Subject: To bring you all up to date on the Calatrava Bridge issue

To bring you all up to date on the Calatrava Bridge issue

Because of the letters received from international sources protesting the bridge The Lord Mayor has agreed to a meeting this coming 9 January in Venice. I have been invited to attend to represent international voices. I now live in Padova Italy, thirty minutes away.

I am asking all of you who have been preaching Universal Design, accessibility for all, Visitability, good design to pitch in and send out letter of protest if you haven't already done so. I also am desperately trying to find out more information about structural glass that is specified for steps on the bridge.

I am hoping one of you can help.

1. Is it safe when wet or icy?
2. Does it wear well. What is the life span?
3. Does it have history/good or bad?
4. Is the design of the step safe?

What I am looking for is a valued opinion on the design of the steps and the
material specified. His plans include lighting these steps at night.

My initial reaction is:

1. Glass is slippery when wet and Venice gets wet frequently.
2. Artificial lighting and natural lighting can cause dangerous reflections
on the glass for people with cognitive, mental and visual disabilities -, in fact, for most people.
3. There is no way any one can traverse these steps with a wheelchair, or easily and without danger with canes, walkers, etc.
4. Of course, it is against the law, but the officials know that, so we have to be able to support the faulty design issue.

I need a learned expert in this field to investigate and write up something.
Are you interested? If you're out there, Jake Pauls, what do you think? I have contacted Michael Wright in England as well. When we met in October he said he gets most of his information from you. I am waiting for his reply. Lorna gave me your address.

I have visited and taken photos of the location. It will connect the only bus station, train and parking lot in Venice. Although Venice is really not an accessible city because of all the bridges, why add another barrier? It could create an accessible route to a small section as well as connect all the means of transportation.

To see the bridge and learn more about it check the website
http://www.hbgroup.it/calatrava, just plug in Calatrava Bridge, Venice. You can address your letters to the same group and they will include it in their referendum to the Mayor if it comes in before they leave for the meeting. They are located in Milan.

Thanks, Hope you can help. Happy New Year to all,

Shirley Confino-Rehder CID, AIA Affil.

Elaine Ostroff
Global Universal Design Education Network (USA)
Elaine Ostroff is the founding director of the Adaptive Environments Center and an international Consultant on Universal design education. She directs the Global Universal Design Education Project and the Access to Design Profession Project, lectures on universal design World-wide, and has authored numerous publications on universal design as well as on American with Disabilities Act. She has been honoured by the Environmental Design Research Association, Brandeis University, The Council for Exceptional Children, the ADA National Technical Assistance Network and the Radclisse Institute.

From: Jake Pauls
Sent: sabato 4 gennaio 2003 18.41
To: hbgroup@hbgroup.it
Subject: Calatrava Bridge - Jake Pauls' Critique

Shirley Confino-Rehder and all others concerned with the Calatrava Bridge Design in Venice,

The importance of this issue prompts me to emerge from under the overwhelming work load of recent months which has kept me from communicating with many professional and other colleagues. I have read the many comments on the web site (http://www.hbgroup.it/calatrava/world.htm) and agree with them on the principle of not designing yet another inaccessible pedestrian facility.
While the detailed information on the proposed design is not known to me (even with my visits to the Calatrava web site, http://www.calatrava.com), it is clear that the design poses significant usability AND SAFETY problems for ALL potential users.

A well-known portion of my expertise is on the usability and safety of stairways. Among the key principles of stairway design are the following: do not have stairs unless they are absolutely essential functionally; and if you have stairs, make sure that their step geometry is appropriate for human ga it. On the latter principle, an important, historically-enshrined sub principle is for the step geometry to be uniform. Putting steps onto an arched or curved structure will invariably lead to serious problems of step uniformity and/or problems of transitions between stepped and ramped or level portions of the circulation path. Furthermore, there is the issue of low risers with long treads that will be likely with the proposed bridge design with its end slopes of about 1 vertical in 5 horizontal. All of these defects will be even more problematic in crowd situations where people cannot always see all of the tread nosings, even if well marked. There are, in addition (as if there were not already enough potential dangers), challenges of making the treads adequately slip resistant. (Note that, with common step geometries, slip resistance of treads is not so great an issue, but all of this changes when the treads are relatively long as they will be at the slopes on this proposed bridge.)

Here let me interject a quote from the architect's web site. "I believe geometry is fundamental to understanding architecture. I approach my work through geometry. In understanding the world of architecture, the language of geometry is as important as the language of structure. Both are significant sources of inspiration for me, along with the properties of materials and the world of nature." (Calatrava web site: http://www.calatrava.com/1/index.html)
As meaningful as pure geometry may be, we must never forget that great architecture is not merely to be looked at and be structurally sound, but to be walked -- and wheeled -- upon as well, especially in the case of the bridge in Venice. The human factors must not be ignored! We are more than mere sets of eyes to admire architecture.

The bottom line, in addition to all of the accessibility problems for the already underserved minority who have disabilities, there are huge safety problems that -- if left unsolved -- will only lead to a large number of
falls, injuries and even more people with disabilities. The difference here is that these future disabilities are preventable! Those of you who know of my many publications and presentations will recognize that I do not use the word "accident" when referring to falls for example; however, with the proposed bridge design we have "an accident waiting to happen." I hope that this E-mail is made known to the architect and local officals so that there will be no question about the issue of legal notice; they should be completely aware of the dangers the current design will pose to ALL users should this project go ahead as currently designed.

In the course of my 36 years of dealing internationally with usability and safety issues with stairs, I have been called upon to assess the built results of the grand designs of well-known architects. One example that comes to mind is the National Gallery in Ottawa, Canada, where (post-construction) I was retained to assess the usability and safety problems of grand stairways among other circulation routes. At least one of the architect's grand follies (comparable to the proposed bridge stairs) had to be torn out and completely rebuilt at great cost to the owner, the Canadian public and the architect's reputation in my personal opinion.

To all working in Italy (and elsewhere) to have this bridge design fundamentally reconsidered, I wish you well.

Jake Pauls, CPE
Jake Pauls Consulting Services in Building Use and Safety
12507 Winexburg Manor Drive, Suite 201
Silver Spring, Maryland 20906-3442
Tel. 301-933-5275 - Fax 301-933-5541

From: Edward Steinfeld
To: hbgroup@hbgroup.it
Sent: Monday, January 06, 2003 9:55 AM
Subject: Calatrava Bridge - Jake Pauls' Critique

Fromt he looks of the bridge, it appears that there will also be some sloped surfaces that will probably be glazed as well. That is the worst condition for slippery walking surfaces.

Edward Steinfeld, Arch. D., AIA
Professor of Architecture
Director, IDEA Center and the RERC on Universal Design at Buffalo
School of Architecture and Planning
382 Hayes Hall
SUNY/Buffalo
Buffalo NY 14214716 829 3485, x329

From: Edward Steinfeld
To: hbgroup@hbgroup.it
Sent: Monday, January 06, 2003 9:38 AM
Subject: The Calatrava Bridge - update

I visited the Lerner Center at Columbia U. in mid November. This building, is also designed by a world famous architect, Bernard Tschumi, Dean of Columbia's School of Architecture. The building has a beautiful interior ramp system about 6 stories high, mirrored by the exterior glazing wall of the building. The surface of the ramp is glass. It is treated by sandblasting or some other method so that it is not slippery when dry. However, one segment of the ramp connects the street with the campus quadrangle and is a main route of travel to get on the campus. I noticed that the entire length of this segment had been covered with the kind of mats that are used at the entries to buildings. This suggests that when wet, the glass is slippery. I have photos of this.

The availability of new types of structural glass has allowed architects to design things that could never be done before. They like to do that to prove their "genius." In the design of a recent Gap store in NYC, the entire stairway including treads, balusters and structural support was constructed out of structural glass. The idea is to let light penetrate into the building further and to make a surface that gives the user a thrill - it supposed to feell like walking on air, I guess.

In my opinion, using this glass outdoors without adequate testing is not a good idea. I believe that Calatrava has used this approach on other projects he has completed. It would be good to get some first hand information from people who live in the cities where these projects have been completed. I will ask on of my colleagues if she knows if and where he did it before.

Edward Steinfeld, Arch. D., AIA
Professor of Architecture
Director, IDEA Center and the RERC on Universal Design at Buffalo
School of Architecture and Planning
382 Hayes Hall
SUNY/Buffalo
Buffalo NY 14214716 829 3485, x329

From: Charles Schwab
To:hbgroup@hbgroup.it
Sent: Sunday, January 05, 2003 4:56 AM
Subject: Calatrava Bridge - Jake Pauls' Critique

In Brief: Structural deck glass. I specified the product for a FLAT bridge in a huge home/ conf. center in Steamboat Colorado. It spanned a bar below out to a wonderous view of the valley. Oddly enough my brige too is illuminated with fiber optics emmbeded in the bridge.
The name of the company is BPI products from USA and I bet it is the same. It has been used on floors in hotels and light bridges across malls. It is a great product, however I have never heard of it used outside anywhere, and believe me, I did my homework on this one, as the bridge leads to an outside view. My specs on it are in Chicago and I am in Aspen at the moment, however I will try and look into it in the morning for you. I am a bit disapointed, Calatrava has been my favorite Architect in the world for years. He is a swiss born Architect - Engineer, famous for his beautiful tensile structures, usually bridges, that make sense why he was chosen for this project.
As an Architect who has always truly respected his work as genious, perhaps he is missing the obvious on this one. Perhaps he and his team should look into the new elevator products that move both vertically and horizontally at the same time, ie they move diagonally. I think OTTIS is the company that makes those, cutting edge, probably will be used in the new twin towers design if the " kissing towers" solution is chosen.
Surly such a international Architect pro would never listen to a little American Architect like me who specializes in Universal Design, but maybe he should! Such a people mover feature could be a complement, side by side to stairs, and it could be lit from below, have hand rails and actually be really cool. Kind of like that slick United Terminal in Chicago, except diagonal up and down again. Just what are these guys thinking, or not thinking at all.
Glass structural stairs outside, not yet sorry,except I am sure Kalwall corp. could design a non slip surface, But by now the budget is probably shot.
The diagonal people mover is the way to go.
Gee kids, next time hire me!

Charles Schwab

Importance: High
I am appalled to learn that the City of Venice will allow Santiago Calatravathe's design of the new bridge on the Canal Grande to be implemented.

The Mayor of the City of Venice should be aware that the whole world is watching as Venice proceeds with a scheme that contravenes Italy's laws relating to accessibility, and no doubt contravenes Itlay's obligations under International Treaties. The Mayor is urged to intervene and insist on appropriate design modifications.

The Mayor of Venice

A question to consider, who should judge the bridge?

I have no doubt it is an inspirational design but from all reports not a universally accessible one.

I would like to know what the chief designer has to say about the design decisions to exclude universal mobility as I do not cherish the idea that Santiago Calatrava will be the recividist of future criticism which may be unfounded because of the brief, decisions or exclusions by others.

Please ask the master architect/designer to respond to the criticisms which I feel have been a shotgun reaction ( typical American George Bush approach)to what has happened. I would like to hear his side of events first. I would also like to think he will reconsider his concepts about how this bridge should work and for whom it should work. It wouldn't be the first time variations have occurred during construction.

As it may have repercussions and jepordise other future Calatrava master pieces in the built environment I do not like the prospect of Santiago Calatrava being labelled supremist and elitist for not responding to the criticism generated.

I also realise there are problems with Venice subsiding and there may be other technical and design considerations but I feel it is no excuse not to address the universal accessibility issue.

It is very hard to change culture and design philosophies. However universal access for all should be a prime consideration in the design process and be inluded in the brief scoping and design process.

From: Mallika Macleod
Sent: venerdì 10 gennaio 2003 3.35
To: hbgroup@hbgroup.it
Subject: Ensuring inclusive design

From across the oceans...

I would like to register my support to STOP the construction of a badly designed bridge over the Canal Grande which discriminates against people who are unable to navigate stairs.
This includes people who use wheelchairs, and increasingly our ageing population... our parents, our grandparents, and one day ourselves.

Although I write to you from Australia, I feel the discrimination impacts on myself as a wheelchair user, especially should I wish to tour Venice and access the bridge.

Good design includes people of all abilities, and the social value of inclusion cannot be expressed in just an e-mail. It allows friends to travel together, couples to experience together and people who upon a time were excluded from the built environment to play an active role in their community.

The bad design of this bridge perpetuates the archaic notion that people with disabilities should have to ask for help to access the community, or sit by and just watch others enjoy what is available.

Please re-consider who you are building this bridge for, and implement GOOD and INCLUSIVE design both in this project and ALL future work.


regards,

Mallika Macleod
ACROD WA, Policy and Project Officer
National Industry Association for Disability Services

From: Tena Calanna
Sent: venerdì 10 gennaio 2003 3.51
To: hbgroup@hbgroup.it
Subject: Please add me to your list

I would love to visit Venice again, I also have a disability and work in the field of spinal cord injured people (who by the way do a lot of travelling and would love to be able to get around Venice in their wheelchairs) The new bridge would have to be built within these guidelines also.

Regards
Catena Calanna
Coordinator - Elba Incorporated
Centre for Neurological Support
The Niche - Suite B
11 Aberdare Road
Nedlands WA 6009
Phone : (08) 9346 7387 or (08) 9346 7388
Fax/Ans. Machine : (08) 9346 7385

Dear City of Venice, and Architect Santiago Calatrava,

Venice is a most beautiful city that attracts thousands of visitors every year. Therefore it was a great disappointment to read that the design of the new bridge over the Canal Grande will not be accessible to people of all ages and abilities. This is a violation of Italian and international access laws. It also make poor planning sense as it does not take fully into account the fact that in Italy and around the world populations are rapidly
ageing. The likelihood of having a disability significantly as we age -
indeed it could be said that when we provide access we are planning for our future selves.
Over centuries Italian architects have been renowned for their design abilities and creative flair and I am hopeful that the City of Venice will be as successful in meeting today's design challenges as they have been in
the past.

Philippa Daly Smith
Chair, Universal Design Network
Perth, Western Australia