Why
A larger lock in Kornwerderzand also means larger passageways in the bridges of the A7, which are also in need of renovation. The province of Friesland is therefore building four new bridges for Rijkswaterstaat.
How
The Afsluitdijk was built in 1932 with two swing bridges in the A7 at Kornwerderzand. At the time, the choice for swing bridges was deliberate in order to be able to give the expected enemy a good shot from the casemates. These bridges are now in need of replacement. The new clearance openings (21.7 and 25 metres) are too wide for new swing bridges. Moreover, this would result in a turning radius that is too large, causing the roads to be even further apart.
That is why four bascule bridges were chosen. These are draw bridges with a counterweight. The definitive design of the bridges is not yet known.
When
Preparation and design: 2021 and 2022
Tendering: first half of 2023
Contractor’s design phase: 2nd half of 2023 – 1st half of 2024
Realisation: 2nd half of 2024 – end of 2025