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Ziegelgraben Bridge in Stralsund: Opening again after repairs!
After repair work, the Ziegelgraben Bridge in Stralsund is reopening to ships as usual and increasing traffic speeds.
Ziegelgraben Bridge in Stralsund: Opening again after repairs!
The Ziegelgraben Bridge in Stralsund can once again be used regularly by shipping. After technical faults were resolved, the bridge reopened to the passage of ships six times a day today, October 15, 2025. This became possible after defects were identified during scheduled maintenance work, affected parts were removed and repaired. The first regular opening took place at 12:20 p.m., with the experts successfully adjusting the flap on the first attempt. Good news not only for shipping, but also for drivers, as the speed on the bridge has been increased to 50 km/h for cars and 30 km/h for trucks, making passage easier.
But maintenance work on bridges was required not only in Stralsund. The Zecheriner Bridge near Usedom has also been severely restricted since October 6th due to similar repair work. During a test drive after the maintenance, it was discovered that the bridge did not open evenly. As a result, the speed for cars was reduced to walking speed and the openings for shipping were also temporarily suspended. On October 9th, those responsible were finally able to determine the cause of the irregularities. Similar to the Ziegelgraben Bridge, it was necessary to remove defective parts that now need to be reprocessed.
Bridge safety in focus
Maintenance work on bridges is an important issue in Germany. Many bridges, especially those built in the 1960s, require regular maintenance as they are often no longer able to cope with increased traffic conditions, especially heavy transport. Studies show that the useful life of many bridges, estimated at 70 to 80 years, often show defects earlier.
Regular main tests in accordance with DIN 1076 are required to ensure the safety and longevity of bridges. These tests, which are usually carried out every six years, include checking the stability, traffic safety and service life of the structures. Bridges receive grades from 1 to 4, which is crucial for planning further measures. To identify security risks early, engineers use not only human testing, but also innovative technologies. “Intelligent bridges” with sensors to monitor moisture and damage conditions are being tested.
Shipping around Stralsund and Usedom shows how important it is that bridges are well maintained. Bridges like the Ziegelgraben Bridge, which includes two fixed bridges and a folding middle section, are not only traffic routes, but also vital connections that must be regularly checked for safety.