Structural engineers and independent experts conducted assessments after the discovery of small cracks at the weld points. According to the German Press Agency (DPA), these cracks were found to be superficial, with no serious compromise to the steel’s integrity. As a result, the bridge has been declared safe for continued use by heavy vehicles.
Before the closure, around 136,000 vehicles crossed the bridge daily, with heavy goods vehicles making up 21% of the total traffic.
Projections indicate that traffic will increase significantly in the coming years. By 2030, daily vehicle counts could rise to 160,000, with the proportion of heavy goods traffic expected to increase to 27 per cent.
The Norderelb Bridge, which first opened in 1963, has been in use for more than six decades. While originally built as a four-lane bridge, its hard shoulders were converted to carry additional traffic in 1986. The structure is expected to remain in service until at least 2029, when a parallel replacement bridge is slated for completion.
Although the full results of the recent investigation are expected in autumn, Autobahn GmbH has already initiated increased monitoring of the bridge. This includes frequent inspections of its pylons.
Traffic restrictions may be introduced during these monitoring activities, according to DPA.