Peace Bridge is a sculptural, double-helix tubular truss bridge spanning approximately 130.6 metres and 8 metres wide over the Bow River. Designed by architect Santiago Calatrava, it opened in March 2012 as a dramatic pedestrian and cycle connection between downtown Calgary and Sunnyside. The structure combines form and function: segregated lanes (3.7 m for pedestrians, 2.5 m for cyclists), a roofed glass canopy, no piers in the water—minimizing environmental impact—and dynamic red-and-white colouring reflecting civic identity.

Since opening, the bridge has become an iconic urban landmark, handling up to 9,000 users per day during summer months. Its bold design stirred controversy around its cost, sole-source procurement, and visual prominence, yet it quickly became beloved—appearing on top-10 lists for architecture and public spaces in 2012. A 2019 reflection described how a once contentious structure evolved into “a symbol of unity” and civic pride.

In 2022, extensive vandalism damaged many glass railing panels. The City worked with Calatrava’s firm to replace them with steel tension cables—preserving design integrity while improving durability and reducing maintenance costs. The bridge fully reopened by November 2023 after repairs.

Today, Peace Bridge serves not just as infrastructure but as a vibrant pedestrian art installation—linking neighborhoods, supporting active transportation, and framing views of the river and skyline.