The assessment proves to be highly commendable.
The demolition of the B45 bridge in southern Hesse near Bad König, carried out due to safety concerns, marked the beginning of its replacement. This crucial part of the north-south traffic connection in the region is currently undergoing reconstruction.
Current status: Construction of the new bridge is progressing well. Preparatory works such as site clearing and foundation laying have been completed or are nearing completion.
Estimated timeline: The new bridge is expected to be completed and reopened to traffic within approximately 1 to 2 years from the start of construction, aiming for a reopening sometime between late 2026 and early 2027. During this period, temporary traffic arrangements and detours remain in place to manage the flow along this vital north-south route.
Authorities have emphasized that the replacement is being carried out with modern engineering standards to ensure long-term safety and traffic efficiency.
The explosion on the original bridge caused 33 residential buildings to be evacuated, affecting 141 people. The old bridge was demolished in November 2021, and its replacement was completed in a shorter time frame. Approximately 1,500 truckloads of debris from the exploded bridge in the Odenwald need to be removed.
To expedite the process, Hesse's Minister of Economics, Kaweh Mansoori (SPD), aims to launch a functional tender for planning and construction by a single entity. This approach could potentially accelerate the process significantly by waiving the planning approval procedure.
The closed railway line under the bridge is expected to be operational again by the end of the Hessian summer holidays. Explosives expert Richard Lankes expressed satisfaction with the outcome of the operation. The regional economy is urging for a swift replacement of the demolished bridge.
For those seeking the very latest progress details or specific dates, contacting the Hessian Ministry of Transport or the local Bad König municipal office would provide the most up-to-date information.
The reconstruction of the B45 bridge, a vital north-south traffic connection in Hesse, is currently undergoing modern engineering standards to ensure long-term safety and traffic efficiency. The new bridge, expected to be completed within approximately 1 to 2 years, will be replaced due to the explosion on the original bridge in November 2021. Hesse's Minister of Economics, Kaweh Mansoori, aims to expedite the process further by launching a functional tender for planning and construction by a single entity.
