A jewel of architecture and engineering, the Skywalk is a truly grandiose work: a suspension bridge 4000 feet (about 1200 metres) above the Grand Canyon, about 70 feet (20 metres) deep.
The spectacular U-shaped observation deck was made in Germany using advanced structural glass technologies. The intermediate layers guarantee strength, rigidity and extreme transparency, with a capacity to support the weight of 120 people and winds of up to 160 km/h.The glass floor extends 21 metres out into the void, and measures 3 metres wide and about 60 mm thick.
The location is Grand Canyon West, about 190 kilometres from Las Vegas and 115 kilometres from Kingman: the only place where it is possible to get down to the Colorado River. This is home to the Hualapai people (about 2000 members), who own about a million acres of land. The capital of the Hualapai reserve is Peach Springs.
This futuristic enterprise will undoubtedly bring new tourists to the Grand Canyon area, showing how architecture and nature can work together to help boost a country?s economy.
Laura Della Badia
