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Bridge in Radeberg: Closed for nine months - future uncertain!
Radeberg, June 19, 2025: Damage to the Rathenauer Straße bridge leads to traffic disruptions and testing measures.
Bridge in Radeberg: Closed for nine months - future uncertain!
The bridge on Rathenauer Strasse in Radeberg has been closed to car traffic for almost nine months. The reason for this is significant damage that was discovered during an investigation by an engineering firm. This bridge is one of the main arteries in the region and its closure has a noticeable impact on traffic. Loud daily news The engineers' analysis showed that the bridge's load-bearing capacity was only limited.
Investigations have revealed visible damage such as transverse cracks across the support and longitudinal cracks on the underside of the bridge. Another cause for concern is the possible penetration of moisture, which could promote rust formation on the prestressing steel. Eyewitnesses report the damage, which now appears obvious.
The monitoring plan
Experts recommend conducting an acoustic emission analysis over a period of at least three months to closely examine potential cracks in the prestressing steel. These preventative measures are necessary because the bridge poses a danger in its current condition. Under the current circumstances, pedestrians and cyclists are still allowed to use the bridge, while heavy goods traffic is excluded. However, a possible partial reopening could be considered if no new damage is identified in the coming months.
On June 25th, Radeberg's city council will decide on the engineering firm's recommendations. The monitoring costs amount to around 350,000 euros - a significant sum that is sustainable for the safety of the bridge and its users. At the same time, this raises the question of whether, given the condition of the bridge, one should consider building a new one.
A new building in sight?
A closer look shows that the Rathenau Bridge requires reconsideration, and not just because of the damage. It had already been planned for demolition in advance because the electrification of the railway line under the bridge would require an elevation. The fact is that the existing bridge is not designed for this electrification and is 70 centimeters too shallow. A new building would therefore be absolutely necessary and could ideally be built by 2029. Plans for this are already being negotiated with Deutsche Bahn THERE reported.
The condition of the bridge not only raises questions about traffic safety, but also highlights the need for regular bridge inspections. A look at the standards as they appear in Forum Publisher established, makes it clear that regular checks are essential to prevent conditions such as those now being observed. The last bridge TÜV inspection in the summer of 2024 resulted in a grade of 3.5 - a deficiency that is even more worrying after the tragic collapse of Dresden's Carola Bridge in September 2024.
The situation around the Rathenauer Bridge in Radeberg shows in an alarming way that it is high time to keep an eye on the condition of important infrastructure. It remains to be seen what the city of Radeberg and its politicians will decide, but one thing is certain: there is a need for action!