New construction of the Bergerbrücke: Change from tunnels to efficient bridge solution

<p> <strong> New construction of the Bergerbrücke: Change from tunnels to efficient bridge solution </strong> </p>

New building instead of tunnel: Bergerbrücke in Porz is to be canceled

The Berger Bridge in Porz is faced with a comprehensive renovation because it is in a worrying state. The latest preparations include planning for a new building of the bridge, while the existing construction is to be torn down. A corresponding template will be presented to the political committees for advice next month.

The bridge, built in 1965, acts as an important traffic axis between the districts of the Eil and Porz-Mitte. Due to safety concerns, there are no heavy vehicles there, and speed 30 applies. The existing structure is loaded by clamping steel, which contains a potential risk of voltage corrosion. Despite these problems, it was emphasized that the bridge is currently still safe.

Decision for a new building

About five years ago, the city council made the decision for a replacement building, with several options being examined. Tunnel solutions were also checked under these variants, which were, however, rejected. The construction of a tunnel would bring considerable interference with railway operation and also cause complications when laying supply lines. This led to uncertainties regarding the cost estimates for tunnel variants.

The administration has therefore spoken out for the construction of a new stick arch bridge. This bridge construction offers the advantage of a shorter assembly period, which helps to impair rail operations less. The planning also provides that a funding option of up to 70 percent of the construction costs can be used. The estimated costs range between 43 and 44.5 million euros.

If the political committees agree to the proposals in May 2025, the planning could progress and a construction decision could be made by 2026. The planned work could begin in 2028, which would mean an important step for the transport infrastructure in the region.