The monument-protected bridge in Přelouč is back in operation after repairs

Přelouč – In the night leading to today, after several months of repairs, the heritage-protected bridge in Přelouč, Pardubice Region, was opened to motorists. The construction work cost the region 41 million crowns. This was stated by the governor Martin Netolický (3PK/ČSSD).

"We have been intensely addressing the condition of the bridges over the Elbe for a long time, and gradually, with the help of European and state funds, we are managing to improve their condition. The opening of the bridge will also simplify the planning of detour routes for bus transport while also relieving personal car drivers," said Netolický.

The construction spans across the Elbe. The preparation for the repair of the Přelouč bridge, which involved relocating utilities and building a temporary bridge, was far more complex than the reconstruction itself. The construction company then removed unsuitable accessories, demolished the leveling plates of the supporting structure, and removed the insulation.

On the prepared structure, they built a monolithic leveling slab including ledges under the sidewalks and drained the roadway. New railings, matching the previous parameters, were installed on the bridge.

"Even though it is a heritage-protected structure, it was financially the least demanding construction. Cooperation with the heritage protectors worked very well throughout the construction period. Moreover, the construction company adhered to the set schedule. I am convinced that we approached the reconstruction of this heritage-protected bridge with the utmost respect," said deputy governor Michal Kortyš (ODS).

The bridge in Přelouč is a weir bridge and leads towards the village of Břehy. The ensemble consists of a road reinforced concrete bridge with a weir, control towers, a lock, and a hydroelectric power station. The bridge consists of five segmented spans with a trio of pillars featuring decorative capitals. The reinforced concrete structure has an ornamental surface finish with a concrete railing. The bridge was built in the 1920s according to a design by František Roith.

The Pardubice Region also plans to repair two other bridges on the Elbe. It is proceeding with preparations for the repairs of the bridge in Řečany nad Labem towards Kladruby nad Labem and the Pavla Wonky bridge in Pardubice. The reconstruction of the bridge in Kladruby is planned for 2022. The bridge was built at the beginning of the 20th century and is nearing the end of its lifespan; its condition has been monitored by the Pardubice Road Administration for years.

In the same year, the repair of the large bridge in Pardubice should also begin after various delays. It will be necessary to replace the internal broken steel cables, and the work will likely take two construction seasons.