Bad calculations caused the bridge in Jihlava to burst

Jihlava - The reason for the cracking of the concrete footbridge over the Jihlava River, which was to be part of the new Jihlava bike path, was poor static calculations. This was stated to journalists today after a meeting with the contractors by Mayor Jaroslav Vymazal. The construction was originally supposed to be completed by the end of August; according to current optimistic estimates, the builders should be finished by the end of October.
    The crack appeared in the footbridge in early August. This Wednesday, demolition work began at the construction site. Work should proceed continuously; however, it is not possible to shorten some technological deadlines. Approximately 19 meters of the bridge arch will need to be removed. "The last meter will be demolished manually to expose the reinforcement to which the new section will be connected. The reinforcement will be strengthened, high-strength concrete will be used, and additional anchoring will be added. Overall, the statics of the bridge will be reinforced," described the course of the work Vymazal.
    The city was preparing for a ceremonial opening of the bike path designated in the developed cycling transport plan as R04 on September 18. According to the mayor, sanctions for failing to meet the deadline are severe, amounting to millions of crowns. "For the designers, it could be devastating; it will depend on the consideration of the councilors. From my perspective, the city should not seek compensation unless it loses nearly 6.5 million crowns in state subsidies," noted Vymazal. The deadline is according to him November 15.
    The bike path will start at the gate on Matky Boží Street, running along Věžní Street, through the park near the Dukla cinema, Tyršova Street, and the Keťásek park, where it will pass through a tunnel to the tennis courts. The footbridge over the Jihlava River will connect the path to the already existing bike path on Romana Havelky Street.
    The total costs will reach approximately 17 million crowns. The illuminated footbridge will span above the weir at Český mlýn, will be 45 meters long and three meters wide. The slope of the footbridge should also be suitable for the movement of physically disabled citizens.