2_2_1 Task

Where is the toxic waste located exactly? And what kind of toxic waste is it?
The location of the toxic waste cannot be precisely determined. The gasworks were located in the area between the old metro tunnel of U4 (which runs alongside the river tunnel) and the Gaudenzdorfer Gürtel. It is likely that some toxic waste is still in old underground storage tanks. It's also probable that some waste has seeped into the ground in or around the former buildings or will have been deposited downriver by water flowing underground.
The area closest to the river is said to have been cleaned up during the excavations for the new U4 metro tunnel, which was dug into that part of the gasworks site.
As is the case with many contaminated sites, obtaining specific information is difficult and time consuming, and would require extensive research and exploration with drilling rigs. For the purposes of the competition, we defined the area possibly affected by toxic waste on plan 3_1_1 (oval-shaped space coloured light-pink).
As your CAD may show this graphic element in a different colour and line style, please refer to the PDF version of the document.
Given that the task is rather complicated, we decided not to include a clean-up for the toxic waste, although this would almost certainly be necessary if the site were to be developed in reality. The cost would likely be in the tens of millions of Euros.
As far as the type of chemicals is concerned, some of the waste consists of tar residue which resulted when coal was converted into gas. Other by-products include, for instance, benzene and sulphur, as well as residues from chemicals used in the process such as cyanide.

More information can be found on these websites:
In English:
http://archive.seattlepressonline.com/print-261.html
http://www.wcax.com/global/story.asp?s=5727596
http://mgp2006.instep.ws/abstracts/05_deVries_Estimating.pdf

In German:
http://www.umweltbundesamt.at/st20.html
http://fm-eth.ethz.ch/eth/media/FMPro?-db=pressemitteilungen.fp5&-lay=html&-format=pr_detail_de.html&pr_id=1998-29&-find
http://noe.orf.at/stories/210919/

Is it possible to build on the toxic waste site? Is it possible to dig for foundations?
Foundations that reach into the toxic waste (pilings driven into the ground) or a flat slab resting on the surface are possible. But you should avoid proposing any underground rooms, parking garages or other underground structures in the area marked toxic waste. In the toxic waste area, the ground floor is the lowest usable space. See § 7.10 (and § 3.2). Unfortunately, the cost of removing the toxic waste is so high that the Vienna City government is not prepared to make the investment. Please keep to the restrictions § 7.10.

Is it possible to plant trees on the toxic waste? Is there any maximum height of the tree/root?
There are no restrictions for trees, provided the tramway track is unimpeded.

In area marked toxic waste (311_Situation PDF - area colored light pink), can we dig down 3 to 5 meters?
No, you can not dig down.

Did the Gaudenzdorfer gasworks have a gasometer with brick walls?
Yes. Please look at the picture on page 6 of document 2_2_1 Task.

§ 1.5 Tour bus parking

May I relocate the parking area for tour buses?
Yes, in fact the parking area can be completely eliminated. It will be relocated outside the perimeter area of the competition site and therefore does not need to be integrated into the master plan.

Are we allowed to create more parking spaces than the number required?
Yes.

§ 2.1 / 3.2 / 4.3 / 5.1.3 / 6.1 A / 7.9 Vienna River

What possibilities are there to alter the riverbed or regulate the flow of the river, since it is heavily polluted and in parts not at all attractive?
Unfortunately, although the river is admittedly rather unappealing, the size and capacity of the riverbed cannot be changed because of the risk of flooding. You may propose a more "natural" riverbed, but please do so as an additional variant to your project. It is important that your project is feasible with the river as it is.
As you can see in the video clip B (towards the end of the clip), the river bed section northwest of Hütteldorf has already been restored. Unfortunately, such a change would need a longer stretch of river than the one available to us inside our perimeter.

Can the wall containing the overflow from the river, on the side of Linke Wienzeile, be reduced in height?
The northern wall of the canal has the same limitations as the southern wall, furthermore, the existing level of Linke Wienzeile should not changed. (see also Linke Wienzeile (Map 3_0_2 / 3_0_3 / 3_0_4))

Can we put an embankment (that can be to opened in case of flood) into the canal?
No embankments that reduce the cross section of the canal are allowed inside the walls of the canal. In most cases of flooding, there would be no time to remove such constructions as the water may rise very quickly in case of thunderstorms.

Is it possible to change the type of surface material of the pavement along the Vienna river, without changing the section of the river?
Yes.

Is it possible to build over the river (above the line marking the 1000-year flood level)?
Yes, provided you keep to the green project perimeter.

§ 4.1 / 7.3 / 7.4

Is it possible to change the location of the tramway line from the southwest to the northeast of Margaretengürtel Station?
The tramway must remain where it is.

§ 4.2 Cut back the metro line maintenance track (optional)

Can the maintenance track be removed or covered? What is the maximum height of this cover?
You cannot completely cover the service track, as it is used for loading maintenance equipment from trucks to rail cars. A stretch of 65m must remain open (see §4.2).

If the metro line maintenance track is used for loading and unloading building materials, does it need an access road for trucks/lorries/cars to bring the building materials to the maintenance trains? If so, are there any restrictions for such a road?
No, any flat surfaces will do.

If I leave the metro maintenance track uncovered, would access from an upper level only at the place where the tunnel begins be sufficient, or do I have to give access from the whole length of the track on a lower level as well?
For loading and unloading, the whole train length of 65 m (see 2_2_1 Task § 4.2) must be accessible from above.

Is it possible for the track to be covered on its end with an 8m wide bridge structure?
Only if the open track is still 65 m in length.

Can I plant trees next to the Maintenance track?
Only if they are no hindrance to loading and unloading the maintenance trains.

We want to cut back the maintenance track and are wondering if there is a maximum height needed to load goods onto the trains?
The whole length of 65 m track must remain uncovered, so that the freight can be lowered from a truck onto the freight cars. For a reference, please check with the maintenance track as it is today.

Is there a crane or other sort of implement needed to load the freight?
Yes of course, but the type of crane may vary with the type of freight. For most occasions it will be a mobile road crane that will be driven close to the track. The crane can be positioned on the upper level (the level of Gaudenzdorfer Gürtel), for instance directly above the mouth of the tunnel of the maintenance track.

Must the surface surrounding the maintenance track be flat or can there be steps or an incline?
As long as a flat and road accessible surface for the loading crane is available close to the track, no other restriction for the surface surrounding the track is given. For a reference, please check with the maintenance track as it is today.

§ 5.1 Master plan

Is it possible to create a new zebra crossing for pedestrians on Linke Wienzeile and regulate it with a new traffic light?
Yes.

We would like to make a link on an upper level between the three metro stations.
Your proposition is partially outside the perimeter. We can therefore not give you the go ahead for this idea, but sometimes, architects have to take some risks…

May we use Franz Schwarz Park for buildings, or should it stay a park?
As Franz Schwarz Park is inside the master plan perimeter, you may use it for buildings, but keep in mind the space needed for traffic.

Can I displace the current pedestrian crossing at Linke Wienzeile (it is right next to the Bridge and uses a triangular island) about 20m to the west and not use the island?
Yes.

Can I add to my project urban furniture such as fountains or landscaping elements such as small ponds?
Yes.

§ 5.4 Report / 2_3_1 Tender Documents, § 2.4

I didn't understand quite well how the reports to the referenced persons are made. What's the format, are they to bee on the presentation panels?
See document 2_3_1 Tender Documents: The report should be integrated into the panels. For report 2.4.1 and 2.4.2 you may use text and graphics, for report 2.4.3 no graphics should be used.

§ 6 Surface Allocations

Should all functions of Outdoor Sport C1, C2, C3, C4 be located in the green area or can they be placed outside of it? Can you please specify which elements from the "Surface allocation" have to be located in the green area?
The outdoor sport facilities C1 … C4 should be inside the river park. The river park itself must be inside the project perimeter (area marked green on document 3_0_2). Therefore, the outdoor sport facilities C1 … C4 must be inside the green area as well. The second element that must be inside the project perimeter is the community centre (D1 … G10). The other public spaces are not meant to be inside the Project Perimeter, they can be somewhere else inside the Master Plan Perimeter.

§ 6.1 Public Space

Is the A3 Sculpture Park integrated into M1?
This is a mistake. A3 should be integrated into A1. Please refer the the following corrigenda. (PDF)
2_2_1_6 Task_Surface_allocation_corrigenda

§ 6.2 C4 / 6.3 G6 Outdoor Sport and Community Center

Is the open terrace indicated in G6 (café of community centre) the same area as that mentioned in C4 (outdoor sports)?
Yes, the terrace C4 is the same as the one in G6, as indicated with the remark "surface area see outdoor sport".

What is meant by D4 "stage area" and why is no space available for it (its surface area is 0 m2)?
The surface of the stage area D4 is included in the multi purpose hall D2. No space has been set aside since the mobile stage elements are only used when needed.

We don’t understand code D3 “Stand for spectators”. What do you mean with “minimum surface when used as handball”? Should we intend a stripe of two meters on the long side of the hall for the spectators? Are they standing or sitting? Should the stand rise up?
If you would like to follow a handball match, how would you like to watch it? The solution is up to you! All we ask for is the minimum surface.

What is capacity of the spectator stand in 6.3 / D3? If we are allowed to use movable stand what is the minimum capacity (with a handball court) and maximum capacity (with a volleyball court)?
The capacity is 80m2 when used with a handball court. Use your imagination, some research and the freedom of choice we left open for you to find out what the capacity can be with a volleyball court. Given the topic of the competition, it would be nice if spectators in wheelchairs could use at least some of the stands…

Are we allowed to use movable stand?
You are allowed to use moveable stands!

§ 6.4 Business and Residential

Gas Station: J2 Covered area for gas pumps - how can this be part area G1? G1 is a cafe with 80 seats. In J3 and J4 it also refers to G1 and G2. Or does it actually mean it belongs to the area J1? Does the area J1= 800 m² mean the complete area only for the gasstation, also for parking?
This is a mistake. J2 is part of J1. Please refer the the following corrigenda. (PDF)
2_2_1_6 Task_Surface_allocation_corrigenda

Are there any restrictions concerning the access to the gas station? Can it be accessed either from the north or south on Gaudenzdorfer Gürtel?
There are no restrictions.

May I relocate the Burger King restaurant and the petrol station?
This question raises an issue that is not clear in document 2_2_1 Task. The Burger King restaurant and the petrol station can and should be relocated so that the site can be redeveloped. We would suggest that you integrate the two establishments into the business and residential complex (2_2_1 Task, § 6.4, chapter H and J, § 6.5).

Is the petrol station area (J1, J2, J3, J4) in some way connected with the café and restaurant of the community centre (G1,G2)?
There is no link between petrol station J and community centre G. J is meant to replace the existing petrol station near Dunklergasse.
The same applies to fast food drive-through H. There is no link between Burger King H and community centre G. H is meant to replace the existing Burger King near Dunklergasse.

Is it possible to increase the square meters of residence required, or must we adhere strictly to the 6800m2?
Yes, you may increase the size of the residence.

§7 Regulations, Restrictions

Are we allowed to build a bridge for bicycles and pedestrians above Gaudenzdorfer Gurtel, Linke Wienzeile and the tramway?
You can use the whole master plan perimeter (document 3_0_2) for buildings, as long as you keep up with all the restrictions in 2_2_1 Task §7.

§ 7.1 Building restrictions
The surface over the toxic waste varies in height between 23.15 and 21.45. Can the surface be evened out on a level of e.g. 22.30?
Yes, the surface over the toxic waste can be lowered by a maximum of 1.00m.

§ 7.3.1 Metro lines

Is it possible to place the metro lines underground so as to use the bridge for other functions?
No, changes to the metrolines U6 and U4 aren't allowed.

Is it possible to displace the Lägendfeldgasse metro station and integrate it into the community centre?
No, this is not possible. Among other reasons, the station could no longer serve both metro lines on the same platform or level. The result would be absolutely contrary to the main goal of the competition: Access for All.

§ 7.3.2 Metro station

Can we move or displace the underground electricity buildings?
No. You can not change or alter these equipment rooms, but you may build over them

Is it possible to remove the underground buildings containing electrical equipment (room north and south)? And if not, is it acceptable to alter them or build over them?
You must not change or alter these equipment rooms, but you can build over them.

I've got a question regarding the subterranean building - electric equipment room north. If I were to build above it, do I have to leave any space for an entrance to this room? If so, where is the entrance?
One entrance is from the southern tip of the triangle with a small open stair leading from the track area down to the equipment rooms (see plans 3_3_6 (axis 49) & 3_5_1 (axis 38), see photos 001 & 002 as well). Another entrance is from the Skate park area in the east (see photos 014 & 015). Both entrances have to be kept open!

Is it possible to create a pedestrian area on the top of the underground electricity buildings?
Yes.

7.4.4 Position of Dunklergasse

Kobingergasse, Olga-Perl-Weg and Seumegasse are one-way streets. Am I allowed to change the direction of the traffic on these streets? Can I make Dunklergasse and Kobingergasse into two-way streets?
You are allowed to change the directions of the above mentioned one way streets or turn them into two way streets.

§ 7.5 Bicycle Path and Bicycle Bridge

Am I allowed to relocate the old bicycle routes?
Yes.

In the "Auszug aus dem Radwegeplan" map, are the cyan/green-coloured bicycle pathways existing or planned? The English version explains only the blue and red pathways.
The green lines on the map show existing secondary routes. They are outside the competition perimeter.

Why is the bicycle path's connection point north "in the small park to the north-east of the branch off from Linke Wienzeile to Gumpendorfer Guertel", when currently the bicycle path leading north goes along the western side of Gumpendorfer Guertel?
Because “Radwegplan der MA 46” (map of bicycle path system from Vienna City office no. 45) stipulates this new position for the bicycle path.

§ 7.5.1 Connection point South

Could you explain par. 7.5.1 "Connection point South"? I don't understand what should be kept the same what should be changed in this connection point.
At the connection point south, the existing level crossing can be left as it is today. From this point on towards the north you are free to propose a new solution.

§ 7.5.2 Connection point west

The connection point is said to be 'north of the "Brücke über die Zeile at Dunklergasse"'. But Dunklergasse seems to be south from the bridge. Is this a mistake?
Yes, the program in § 7.5 is somewhat misleading and partially incorrect. Sorry about this!
The connection to the existing net is on the south side of the small underpass under "Brücke über die Zeile" (green circle 7.5.2). Here the existing path continues along Dunklergasse. The alternative solution is on the north side of "Brücke über die Zeile", where the path could be continued with a cantilevered pathway inside the profile of the river canal.

§ 7.5.3 Connection point North

Where exactly does the bicycle path run from the connection point north? If the connection point is in Franz-Schwarz Park, as I have understood, then does the bicycle path run north along the Gumpendorfergürtel, or along Wallgasse? Where is it supposed to meet another path in the north?
It leads on along Gumpendorfergürtel.

Are we allowed to create another north-south connection path (for example, up Pfeiffergasse)?
No, you must not change the system outside of the master plan perimeter.

§ 7.6 Brücke über die Zeile

Is there's a minimum distance to respect between Wagner's bridge and all new buildings in our projects?
There is no minimum distance to be respected. But of course your project as a whole must respect the monument "Wagner bridge" from an architectural point of view. A good project may touch the bridge; a bad one should stay off as far as possible...

§ 7.6.2 Foundations

Is it possible to dig around the foundation of the bridge?
Yes, but no lower than the river bottom (see § 7.6.2).

§ 7.6.3 Space under the bridge arches

We'd like to use the space under the bridge. Are we allowed to make longitudinal openings to cross one arch to another?
You can make such openings, but they have to be rather small so that the structure of the bridge is not weakened. Double door-size or slightly more might still be OK. The closer to the centre axis of the bridge such openings will be the better.

§ 7.7 Buildings over metro tunnel

How large and heavy can the structures be above the metro tunnel?
Above the new metro tunnel, only buildings of up to two storeys are allowed. (See document 2_2_1 Task, §7.7).

Is it possible to build over the U6 and U4 metro lines? In particular, on the inclined ramp-bridge track before the Bridge ("Brücke über die Zeile").
The restrictions in § 7.6 have been stipulated because of the landmark character of the bridge and because of the structural strength of the existing bridge & tunnel construction. The restrictions in § 7.7 are stipulated for reasons of structural strength only.

Is it possible to build more than two stories over the metro tunnel if we use a structural system that brings the load down with load bearing elements on both sites of the tunnel?
No.

§ 7.9 Flooding / high water

Is it possible to act inside the canal tunnel? Obviously, any intervention would respect the river's rise levels and the restrictions stated in the award's basis.
No intervention inside the tunnels is possible or permitted.

Is it possible to cover the river on a length of 40m or so, with a building that would be set only about 0,5 meter, or 1 meter above the 1000 year flood line?
Yes.

§ 7.9.2 and § 7.9.3 Floods

What's the highest level of the channel? What's the regular level?
For the high water marks, see § 7.9.2 and § 7.9.3 and documents 3_1_4 and 3_1_5. The regular level is very low. As you can see in the video clip and the photos it is somewhere between 10 and 30cm.

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