Sauerland Line A45: Traffic collapse threatens bridges!

Sauerland Line A45: Traffic collapse threatens bridges!

Die Autobahn 45, a significant traffic artery, faces serious challenges due to dilapidated bridges. The focus is particularly on the Brunsbecke valley bridge near Hagen, which is considered the Achilles' heel of the Sauerland line. According to Comee-on.de , the A45 will be fully blocked in the direction of Dortmund from Friday, May 16, 9 p.m. This measure is necessary to carry out renovation work at the bridge crossing of the Brunsbecke.

During this block, the markings are also renewed and fire damage in the asphalt is renovated. According to information from Autobahn GmbH, the bridge is also used for cleaning and green maintenance during this work.

challenges for traffic

The Brunsbecke Bridge received a state grade of 3.0 ("not sufficient") as part of a bridge test in 2022. This means that urgently needs to be traded. A failure of this bridge would completely interrupt the A45 between Hagen-Süd and Lüdenscheid-Nord. The dilapidated feeder routes could quickly reach their capacity limits during the detour via the B54 into the Volmetal, which could lead to a regional traffic collapse, such as auto-motor-und-sport.de determined.

To improve the situation, a quick conversion of the bridge is sought. A replacement building has been planned for several years, but the specific dates for construction and completion are still pending. Provisional measures to secure the continued operation have been in force for years, including a truck gap requirement, speed limits and road waving.

renovation measures and monitoring

Susanne Schlenga, spokeswoman for Autobahn GmbH, explained that a special assembly gauge was installed below the Brunsbecke bridge in order to carry out constant inspection. This measure is intended to recognize structural changes at an early stage and secure the continued operation under conditions. A look at the recent reinforcement work shows that these were intended for 2024 and were successfully completed, including renovation work on concrete surfaces and repairs to transition constructions.

In addition to the challenges that the bridge represents, the Talbrücke Rahmede in Lüdenscheid, which is in the new building, is also worth mentioning. This bridge is to be completed this year. Their repair could help relieve the A45, which is currently in a critical location.

Overall, it can be seen that sustainable maintenance management for bridges, as Drees & Sommer also strives, is of central importance. The focus is on the timely detection of damage and the development of effective renovation strategies. A changed view of the bridge renovation, which also takes into account sustainable aspects, could help avoid similar problems in the future