Located at Turtle Bay Discovery Park near the Redding Convention Center, the Sundial Bridge is an architectural work of art that is beautiful and unexpected in this out-of-the-way burg. Although the entire 300-acre Exploration Park is worthy of its own journal, the Sundial is a must-see if your time here is limited.
Designed by world-renowned Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava, this is the first bridge he designed for construction in the United States. This project was so controversial that it warranted a PBS special, "Angle Of Inspiration--Santiago Calatrava's Sundial," which is still being broadcast around the country. The gist: old-time locals didn't see why they needed a fancy bridge. The cosmopolitan transplants didn't understand why the old-timers didn't want to support the arts. Controversy ensues. The transplants win. The show is a great peek into northern California politics.
Both functional and aesthetic, the bridge is a real sundial, and points of time are marked on the north side of the river with brass placards. The Sundial is an artistic marvel as well. The staff is quick to point out that as a way to keep time, it is only accurate one day a year. Who cares? It's still fun to check your watch against the shadow of the majestic span.
The green glass bottom of the bridge inspires awe as it echoes the color and feel of the Sacramento River it crosses. It appears as a sail from the distance, and all surfaces of the bridge, save for the glass bottom, are covered in pure white mosaic tile that glitters like colored glass at sunset. Cross the bridge from the south and you will see the All-American Trials garden on the north side. There are restrooms and tables here for relaxing. Paths through the gardens provide a peaceful afternoon. Follow the path to the right and there is a small amphitheater under the bridge for musing with the river.
On the south side of the bridge is the Turtle Bay museum and cafe. For a complete list of current events and ongoing displays, visit the Turtle Bay web site at TurtleBay.org.
Admission is free. Take Highway 44 west and follow the signs to the convention center and Turtle Bay. The best parking is the lot directly north of the convention center. Follow the flag-lined path to the bridge.
From journal Redding, CA--Two Days on the Road