Revamping the Brenner Motorway: STRABAG Consortium Takes on Major Bridge Project

Construction workers and machinery on the Brenner Motorway. Construction workers and machinery on the Brenner Motorway.

The Luegbrücke, a crucial bridge on the Brenner motorway in Tyrol, Western Austria, is set for a major reconstruction by a consortium of European construction firms, including STRABAG and PORR. This project, valued at €217 million ($223.3 million), has been awarded by ASFINAG, Austria’s state-owned mobility authority, and is expected to commence next month, with completion slated for December 2030.

Key Takeaways

  • Project Value: €217 million ($223.3 million)
  • Start Date: Spring 2025
  • Completion Date: December 2030
  • Daily Traffic: Approximately 32,000 vehicles
  • Bridge Length: 1.8 km

The Luegbrücke is the longest bridge on the A13 Brenner motorway, serving as a vital route for thousands of vehicles daily. After over 55 years of service, the bridge requires a complete replacement due to the end of its service life. The reconstruction will involve building a composite slab-girder bridge to replace the existing suspension bridge.

Project Details

The reconstruction will be executed in stages, utilizing LEAN Construction techniques to enhance efficiency. The initial phase involves constructing a new support structure alongside the existing bridge, which is expected to be completed by the end of 2027. This new structure will temporarily serve as the Innsbruck carriageway, allowing for traffic diversion while the old bridge is demolished.

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Following the demolition, a second steel-composite support structure will be built to serve as the Brenner carriageway. This phased approach aims to improve safety and traffic flow while minimizing disruptions.

Environmental Considerations

The project also includes the installation of four new water protection systems, emphasizing the consortium’s commitment to environmental sustainability. ASFINAG’s managing director, Hartwig Hufnagl, highlighted the importance of investing in modern infrastructure that supports both safety and environmental standards.

Challenges Ahead

The reconstruction of the Luegbrücke presents several logistical challenges, particularly due to its extreme hillside location. PORR CEO Karl-Heinz Strauss noted that the project is complex and demanding, with a tight construction schedule. The dimensions of the partial structure over the Sillschlucht gorge are unprecedented in Austria, adding to the project’s intricacy.

Conclusion

The STRABAG consortium’s successful bid for the Brenner motorway bridge revamp marks a significant step towards enhancing Austria’s infrastructure. With a focus on safety, efficiency, and environmental sustainability, this project is poised to improve traffic flow and support the region’s economic growth for years to come.

Sources

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