Science Gateway, CERN’s new education and science outreach centre, is reaching its final stages of construction. After two years of works, the final structural and symbolic element of the architectural design will soon be added to the building. It consists of four vertical structures, in the shape of masts, that will be raised on both sides of the Science Gateway bridge, next tothe Route de Meyrin. The installation of these structures marks the last big step in the metallic structure works of the project.
To minimise traffic disruption, the works will take place overnight, from 10.00 p.m. to 5.00 a.m. on the nights of 3-6 and 11-13 April.
All motor vehicles will be diverted through Rue Germaine Tillion (D35), crossing the communes of Prévessin-Moëns and Ferney-Voltaire in France and the town of Meyrin in Switzerland, via the Avenue Auguste-François-Dubois. Public transport (stops along lines 18 and 68 will be accessible at all times, except between 1.00 a.m. and 4.40 a.m.), cyclists and pedestrians will not be affected by these disruptions. Traffic officers will be present throughout the duration of the works.
Although every effort will be made to limit the inconvenience caused by the works, some impact may still be felt. CERN thanks residents and road users in advance for their understanding and recommends that drivers exercise caution and comply with the signage that will be put in place.
The installation of the four 19-metre masts will complete the architectural design envisaged by Renzo Piano Building Workshop and Brodbeck-Roulet Architectes Associés. The tubular structures, which appear to be suspended in space, evoke the pioneering technology that underpins the cutting-edge research carried out at CERN and elsewhere in order to push the boundaries of our knowledge of the origins of the universe. The bridge symbolises the enduring link between science and society, and the masts represent the gateway to science.
Works are also progressing inside Science Gateway: the installation of the exhibition area has begun and the 900-seater amphitheatre, educational labs, reception and restaurant are being fitted out.
Through its exhibitions and hands-on educational activities, Science Gateway will give people of all ages and from all walks of life the chance to find out about CERN’s discoveries, scientific research and technologies. Science Gateway is due to open to the public in the last trimester of 2023.