Strait crossings and major fixed links are often perceived as engineering masterpieces, which shortly after inauguration become integrated parts of the transport networks. Such fixed links are subject to year long political debates before decision, under pretext of environmental impact and undesirable development of traffic. However, most often, the crossings gain public acceptance and are seen as an optimum solution for the specific site. A considerable effort is required to arrive at this perfect solution and it involves much more than traditional engineering and construction technology. Planning, design and construction of a strait crossing is a complex multidisciplinary undertaking, where engineering work is influenced by a political, cultural, environemental, societal, legal, financial and many other agendas. This paper elaborates on the interaction between the various factors that influence the planning, design, construction and operation of strait crossings (A). For the covering abstract of the conference see ITRD E212343.
Samenvatting