He explained that the mentioned bridge is connected with the “Rail baltica” project, and initially it was planned to demolish the Altonava Street bridge, so the municipality did not think of carrying out its capital repair. However, now the plans are changing, and the municipality has asked the Ministry of Transport to give a clear answer about the future fate of the bridge – whether it is planned to be demolished or preserved.
The response from the MoU has not been received, however, the bridge has problems, due to which traffic over it may have to be restricted, the mayor of Riga warned.
In the meantime, the municipality has completed the design of the Zemitan and Vansu bridges, therefore procurements will be announced very soon, which will lead to the construction of the builders. Īrsis explained that there is usually aggressive competition in such tenders, as companies try to get the opportunity to build the facility, so the beginning of next year could be more hopeful for the start of work.
As reported, the Altonava Street overpass was built in 1910 and has served its time. The bridge is located on the planned “Rail Baltica” track, during the construction of which the outdated overpass was supposed to be demolished and a tunnel built in its place.
However, taking into account the problems with financing the construction of the “Rail Baltica” route, the municipality currently does not have information about the possible implementation of the project.
In early spring, the bridge was deemed unsafe and closed to traffic. After the general inspection, traffic for vehicles up to five tons was restored. On the other hand, freight transport may not use the bridge, as well as route 25, 55 and 56 buses will continue to bypass the closed bridge, crossing the railway at the Liepājas iela crossing, which is located near the Paula Stradins Clinical University Hospital.
