Security alarm for the Espen Bridge: Similarities to the collapsed Carola Bridge!

Security alarm for the Espen Bridge: Similarities to the collapsed Carola Bridge!

The Espenbrücke in Möhringen, built around 1955, is in focus following reports about the threat to structurally similar structures. This bridge is constructed similarly to the Carola Bridge in Dresden, which collapsed into the Elbe just a few months ago. However, the Tuttlingen district office emphasizes that the Espenbrücke is currently not in acute danger. In order to minimize possible risks, special safety precautions have been taken.

Strict traffic regulations apply to ensure the safety of the bridge. The speed limit on the Aspen Bridge was set at a maximum of 50 km/h. In addition, heavy traffic is only allowed to drive over the bridge alone so as not to put excessive strain on the structure. This measure is intended to help protect the bridge, which is designed for a maximum load of 40 tons. A further 31 road bridges in the Freiburg administrative region are currently affected by similar restrictions.

Reviews and future actions

The state of Baden-Württemberg has announced that it will check the safety of all approximately 2,500 bridges in the Freiburg administrative region. Particular attention is paid to prestressed concrete bridges, which are susceptible to stress corrosion cracking. Prestressing steels in these bridges can fail without visible signs of corrosion, highlighting the need for detailed investigation. The aspen bridge is considered to be at risk from stress corrosion cracking.

The State Ministry of Transport and the Freiburg Regional Council urgently recommend comprehensive inspections of these types of bridges. However, renovation is not possible for bridges that were built using the tension block method. More detailed results of the investigations are to be presented to the district council committee for environment and technology on July 9th. The district council will then decide on further measures and their schedule.

All clear for the public

There is currently no evidence of an acute threat that would require the Espen Bridge to be completely closed. The nearby second bridge in Möhringen ensures that traffic flow is not affected. Based on the analyzes carried out so far, a temporary bridge is not necessary. There is a distance requirement for trucks of 70 meters to prevent additional strain on the bridge.

In view of the current situation and the upcoming investigations, traffic safety in Möhringen remains an important issue. Those responsible are required to quickly take appropriate measures to ensure the continued use of the Aspen Bridge and to protect the safety of road users.