From the replacement of the deck to the tram tracks – Preparations are underway for a comprehensive refurbishment of the Petőfi Bridge

BKK Zrt. intends to enter into a framework agreement with the successful tenderer for the performance of design work relating to the renovation of the Petőfi Bridge. According to the tender notice, the work has been divided into three parts. The contracting authority undertakes a call-off obligation for the first part.

The bridge was also named after Horthy

The bridge was completed in 1937 and was named after Governor Miklós Horthy. The crossing, which linked the southern districts of Budapest, was blown up at the end of the Second World War. After protracted disputes, the bridge was renovated and reopened to traffic in November 1952 as the Petőfi Bridge. The bridge deck was renovated and rebuilt in the mid-1960s and again in 1979–80. In 1996, as part of the renovation of the Grand Boulevard, the abutments of the Buda pier were replaced; at the same time, the tram tracks were rebuilt and the road surface was also renewed. Two decades later, a comprehensive renovation of the bridge became urgent.

Preparations are also underway for the renovation of the bridge structure and the deck surfaces

The successful tenderer must prepare the planning documentation and obtain the necessary permits. The design work includes comprehensive corrosion protection for the steel structure, as well as the replacement of the kerbs, the tram tracks and the road surface. According to the tender specifications, the tasks also include widening the pavement to prepare for the creation of separate cycle and pedestrian lanes.

They would also restore the 1937 design

The renovated bridge may also be fitted with decorative lighting; the successful tenderer must also draw up plans for this. The client’s expectation is that the bridge’s 1937 appearance be restored.

Plans are being drawn up for both full and partial refurbishment

The design work involves the complete refurbishment of the interior spaces of the bridgehead. The experts from the company awarded the contract must also examine the schedule for the bridge refurbishment and the options for maintaining traffic flow. The tasks include the preparation of detailed design documentation and tender documentation. The tender includes plans for both a full refurbishment and a partial refurbishment.

Design supervision is also included in the duties

The Petőfi Bridge is 500 metres long and has a surface area of 14,415 square metres. The 378-metre-long river-bed bridge is a four-span, continuous truss girder bridge with a reinforced concrete ribbed deck; this is connected to the Buda-side quay span, the Pest-side riverbank span, as well as the bridge abutments and the associated underpasses and overpasses. In connection with the subsequent construction, design supervision may also form part of the remit, whether a full or partial refurbishment is carried out.