Reasons for construction
The Argentinian knot is a very important and effective transport hub today too. However, as the many bridges and roads were constructed at the same time all those years ago, and naturally have a certain lifespan, many new structures and maintenance measures will be necessary in the coming years. HPA frequently performs condition surveys and can find out through statistical analyses, the so-called subsequent calculation of the bridges, how long which bridge can remain in service. Another reason for taking action today is, for instance, the neighbouring Steinwerder area, which is only connected to the main port route via Reiherdamm. An additional road connection via the Ellerholz lock bridge will allow for more flexibility when it comes to maintenance of the Argentinian bridge. In addition to the analyses of the structures, HPA will be focusing on cutting-edge smart bridge sensors and the use of drones, as well as on modern Building Information Modelling (BIM) for the optimised planning and construction of new structures.
The maintenance measures for the Argentinian knot include the replacement of the Argentinian bridge, the Klütjenfeld elevated road and the Spreehafen bridge. Mainly the road surface, lighting, railing and restraint systems have initially been replaced, followed by the reinforcement of steel components and welding seams for the Spreehafen bridge, as well as part replacement of the transition structures. Construction is taking place at the connection in Steinwerder, the Ellerholz lock bridges, the Ellerholz bridge, the Veddel canal bridges and the Ernst August lock bridge, which is being replaced by a road dike. At the Ellerholz bridges, one of the last measures to be completed, an additional bridge for pedestrians and cyclists is being discussed.
One of the first construction projects at the Argentinian knot is the replacement of the Veddel canal bridges, which were erected in 1933. The approximately 60-metre-long bridges consist of an initial three-lane road bridge and a single-track rail bridge. Due to damages to the substance of the bridges, it is not possible to maintain them, and the planning of an optimal solution is still ongoing. In any case, cyclists will be happy to discover that the replacement bridge shall have separate modern bicycle and pedestrian paths on both sides, significantly improving the quality of the Velo Route 11 in the harbour area. In general, the planners have kept cyclists in mind for all construction measures and made it possible to conveniently pass through the port by bike in future, too, and in additional directions. Over the course of the construction work, a one to two-year full closure of the Klütjenfeld road area will be in place for which a suitable detour concept has already been planned. This will make sure the traffic here moves smoothly during this time as much as possible. Cyclists and pedestrians can continue to enjoy their usual route thanks to a temporary bridge during the full closer.
