Traffic dilemma in Hochdorf: B30 bridge construction brings chaos for farmers!

Traffic dilemma in Hochdorf: B30 bridge construction brings chaos for farmers!

From 2028, the State Ministry of Transport in Baden-Württemberg will begin rebuilding the dilapidated B30 bridges near Hochdorf. This measure is urgently needed because the existing bridges are considered at risk due to stress corrosion cracking. The work will be carried out under full closure, meaning traffic will have to be rerouted for a period of 18 to 21 months. The village of Appendorf, which is located directly at the B30 exit, is particularly affected by this diversion. Traffic is routed via the surrounding villages, including Ingoldingen, Ummendorf and Eberhardzell. This leads to a considerable additional burden on the residents living there and the traffic roads there, especially the L284 in the direction of Degernau, which is already very busy at peak times. Schwäbische reports on the challenges that this diversion brings, especially for farmers.

An example of this is the farmer Alfons Schreijäg, who is confronted with the consequences of the traffic situation every day on his farm on the L284. In addition to hauling straw and feed between his farm and a 25-year-old stable, he also has to transport additional cargo during harvest season, particularly for corn harvesting and manure spreading. These additional trips significantly increase the traffic density and thus the difficulties for farmers. Schreijäg often tries to avoid driving during peak hours, but struggles with the conditions as his wheel loader doesn't travel faster than 20 km/h and requires a lot of space to turn.

Traffic challenges and concerns

The harvest season could be particularly risky for Schreijäg and his colleagues. Delays could have financial consequences, such as additional costs for machines and drivers. Schreijäg fears that he may have to work at night to meet strict harvest deadlines, which in turn poses a problem due to nighttime noise emissions. Despite these challenges, he had hopes of achieving less disruptive traffic during the construction of the new bridge. However, the decision communicated by the Ministry of Transport in March 2025 to build the bridges under full closure has dashed these hopes. [Baden-Württemberg].

The decision to build a new replacement building at the same location was made after a comprehensive examination of various alternatives, taking into account both traffic impacts and the least possible interference with nature. The forecasts indicate that all 73 bridges in the country at risk of stress cracking will need to be replaced by 2030. Despite the challenges, intensive exchange with the population and the responsible authorities as well as the consideration of points of criticism are part of the decision-making process.
Ministerial Director Berthold Frieß emphasizes the importance of these measures and sees the new building as the best way to meet all requirements.