Projects
As part of the Arnarnesvegur road development and the Capital Region’s primary cycling network.
Verkís contributed to the design of new pedestrian and cycling infrastructure through Elliðaár Valley, including a new bridge crossing the Elliðaá River at Dimma.
The project replaces an existing utility bridge that served as a pedestrian crossing but featured steep and narrow stairways, creating accessibility challenges for cyclists, wheelchair users, parents with strollers, and other users. The new bridge is designed to provide a safe, accessible, and user-friendly connection that meets modern mobility standards.
Verkís carried out the preliminary design of the bridge in collaboration with Úti Inni Architects, the Icelandic Road and Coastal Administration, and the City of Reykjavík. The proposed structure is a six-metre-wide timber bridge with separate paths for pedestrians and cyclists, improving safety and traffic flow while supporting the region’s growing active transportation network.
Special attention was given to integrating the bridge into the unique natural environment of Elliðaár Valley. Timber was selected as the primary construction material due to its low environmental impact, carbon storage properties, and lightweight characteristics. The bridge design also preserves access beneath the structure for recreational users, anglers, and maintenance vehicles.
The project represents an important step towards improving accessibility, sustainable mobility, and outdoor recreation opportunities within one of Reykjavík’s most valued natural areas.
Bridge width
As part of the Arnarnesvegur development and the Capital Region’s primary cycling network, a new crossing was needed to replace an outdated utility bridge that no longer met modern accessibility standards. The challenge was to create a safe, inclusive and environmentally sensitive connection through the protected landscape of Elliðaár Valley.
Verkís carried out the preliminary design of a new six-metre-wide timber pedestrian and cycling bridge in collaboration with Úti Inni Architects, the Icelandic Road and Coastal Administration and the City of Reykjavík. The design includes separate routes for pedestrians and cyclists, full accessibility for all users and a lightweight timber structure that blends naturally into the surrounding landscape while preserving access beneath the bridge.
The new bridge will provide a safe, accessible and sustainable connection that strengthens Reykjavík’s active transportation network and improves access to one of the city’s most important recreational areas. The project demonstrates how thoughtful engineering and environmentally conscious design can enhance mobility while respecting and preserving valuable natural surroundings.
Technical information
Location:
Elliðaár Valley
size:
6 m
Project period:
2022 –
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