The Helix Bridge

The Helix Bridge is a 280-metre pedestrian bridge across Marina Bay in the Downtown Core, linking Marina Centre near the Esplanade side with Bayfront and Marina Bay Sands, and its curved double-helix steel frame is modelled on the structure of DNA. URA completed it in 2010 beside the vehicular Bayfront Bridge as part of the 3.5-kilometre waterfront promenade around the bay. It was officially opened on 24 April 2010, with the whole length open to walkers from 18 July 2010 once construction at Marina Bay Sands allowed. NHB notes that the spiralling steel structure symbolises life and continuity. The design came from Cox Architecture and the engineers Arup, working with the Singapore practice Architects 61.

Most people cross it as part of a walking loop of Marina Bay that takes in the Esplanade Theatres on the Bay, the ArtScience Museum and Marina Bay Sands. Four viewing pods cantilever out over the water and give clear sightlines across the bay to the business district and the Merlion Park side, which makes the bridge a popular vantage point for National Day fireworks. After dark, lights trace the helix, and pairs of letters, c and g, a and t, glow red and green to stand for the four bases of DNA. Canopies of fritted glass and steel mesh shade parts of the walkway. The nearest MRT stations are Promenade, a short walk from the northern end, and Bayfront, a short walk from the southern end beside Marina Bay Sands.