Bridge collapse threatens: A45 closure ensures traffic chaos in the Sauerland!

Bridge collapse threatens: A45 closure ensures traffic chaos in the Sauerland!

The Autobahn 45, known as the Sauerland line, faces considerable challenges. The valley bridges, especially the Brunsbecke bridge near Hagen, are ailing and are increasingly worried not only to the road users, but also to the authorities. On Friday, May 16, the Brunsbecke Bridge in the direction of Dortmund will be completely closed from 9 p.m. to Monday, May 19, at 5 a.m. This temporary measure is necessary to ensure security on this important traffic route. According to Come-on.de not only the traffic via the U41 needs, but also extensive renovation work is provided, inclusive of renewal the marking and repair of fire damage in the asphalt.

The Brunsbecke Bridge is considered a critical weak point of the A45 and, if it failed, it should be completely inordinary. This would not only have serious effects on regional traffic, but also on the supply chain and the goods traffic, since a detour via the B54 into the Volmetal could quickly reach its capacity limits.

permanently under observation

In order to enable better monitoring of the bridge, Autobahn GmbH under the direction of Susanne Schlenga has installed a special assembly duct that enables continuous inspection of the Brunsbecke Bridge. Such measures are crucial in order to recognize structural changes at an early stage and to be able to secure the continued operation under strict requirements. The fact that the bridge was rated with a grade of 3.0 ("not sufficient") during an exam in 2022 also has difficulty, as reports.

In addition, it is important not to endanger provisions such as a truck gap requirement, speed limits and lane conflows. Planned reinforcement work that was planned for 2024 has already been completed, but the situation for the Brunsbecke Bridge remains tense. A replacement building has been discussed for years, but concrete appointments for construction are still not available.

insight into the bridge renovations

The Talbrücke Rahmede in Lüdenscheid is currently in the new building and is to be completed this year. This bridge could be considered early success in the lengthy and complex history of the bridge renovations on the A45. Compared to the Rahmede Bridge, the Brunsbecke Bridge has a slightly better condition, but also benefits from corrosion protection measures in the past.

The situation makes it clear how important it is to continuously monitor and maintain the infrastructure in Germany. The constant challenges that arise from the old and dilapidated bridges underline the need for comprehensive planning and financing for the future of Autobahn 45.