For many decades Dallas has been divided by several geographic or physical barriers which have artificially consigned some people or groups to an inferior status regardless of their personal traits or ideals. Likewise, for many decades, thoughtful civic leaders have contemplated how Dallas bridges the chasms that exist in the city that divide economic groups, races, and people in general.
These thoughts and contemplations led to the Trinity River Bond program of 1997 that set forth plans for many new amenities along the Trinity River. Some of the more prominent and permanent amenities included signature bridges that would span the Trinity River in the vicinity of Downtown Dallas. Some ambitious Dallasites thought it would be great to have these bridges designed by an internationally acclaimed architect who has designed structures all over the globe, Santiago Calatrava. The first of his bridges, which has been under construction during the past few years, will be opening soon.
Although much preparation has occurred in West Dallas leading up to this occasion, the official celebration on March 2 will cement a signature on the linkage of the prosperous Dallas Central City and North Dallas areas with the historically economically and socially challenged West Dallas area. Whether the linkage displayed by the Margaret Hunt Hill bridge will be increased economic opportunity and social cohesion, or a bridge to an enhanced status quo, will be the responsibility of this and future generations of Dallasites.
In the meantime, there are numerous events associated with the bridge that will be happening this weekend and throughout the month of March. Check them out if you have some time. This weekend will be one of your few opportunities to walk across that bridge.
Reaching Across
the Divide
Posted: February 28, 2012 by Chuck DeShazo
