Motorists on the A1 motorway are facing significant delays and reduced speed limits due to extensive repair work on the Munsbach viaduct, with disruptions expected to last until September 2025.
Construction work on the Munsbach viaduct on the A1 motorway has been challenging for motorists, with a 15-kilometre traffic jam reported as recently as Monday. And due to the need to replace the joints on the viaduct, the maximum speed limit will be reduced to 70 km/h until the start of the 2025 school year.
Currently, only one lane is open with a speed limit of 50 km/h. This lane restriction is expected to continue for at least the next two weeks, causing ongoing traffic jams. Similar conditions will occur after the collective leave period when work shifts to the other lane.
After the summer holidays, both lanes will reopen, but the speed limit will remain at 70 km/h until next summer.
The current work involves replacing the bridge's old joints with temporary ones, first on one lane and then on the other. These temporary joints cannot support speeds over 70 km/h. The original joints, which have been in use for 40 years, have reached the end of their service life. They endure strong vibrations from passing vehicles and allow the bridge to move 30 centimetres forwards and backwards.
Preventive replacement not possible
"We have been monitoring these parts for a long time", says Fritz de Oliveira, Head of Division at the Roads Authority.
However, preventive replacement was not feasible. The authority could not simply order new joints without tearing open the bridge, as they need to be produced and fitted to precise measurements, a process that takes months due to stringent safety standards and tests, Oliveira explains.
Night work not an option
The Roads Authority acknowledges motorists' frustration, but explains that work cannot be carried out during collective leave, and night work is not feasible.
Oliveira provides several reasons for this. Firstly, the nature of the work requires good visibility, which is not available at night. Secondly, the safety of the workers is a major concern. Working alongside a motorway is "never pleasant" and poses significant risks.
Lastly, Oliveira highlights that the work involves periods when elements need to harden, during which no active labour occurs on-site. This hardening process is crucial for ensuring the quality and durability of the repairs.
The call for tenders for the final joints will be launched in the autumn, with the work expected to be completed by September 2025. The new parts are expected to last at least 25 years.
