Basarab Bridge to reopen overnight as repairs continue in Bucharest

Basarab Bridge will reopen to traffic overnight, Bucharest Mayor Ciprian Ciucu said, while repair work continues on the long-neglected structure.

Ciucu said crews had focused since June 20 on work affecting traffic. They alternated closures of the bridge’s lanes, keeping traffic moving in both directions on the open side. Repairs have covered the asphalt, waterproofing, expansion joints and road markings, as well as cracks, concrete elements, pillars and the underside of the bridge.

Workers have also cleaned and repaired drainage systems, including those serving the tram route, and repaired and painted metal elements such as curbs and railings. The mayor said crews worked in two shifts, including weekends.

“

Basarab Bridge will open to traffic tonight, as I promised.

By the end of the year, the city plans to replace rusted fences and sound-protection panels, clean and protect untreated concrete elements, and rehabilitate the tram station, including its plexiglass, stairs, lifts and escalators. Ciucu said the work was necessary because the passage had deteriorated and was no longer safe. Final acceptance is expected early next year.

Traffic restrictions around Unirii Square are due to be lifted before the start of the school year, allowing traffic to return to its usual configuration as Bucharest traffic increases. Work on the new Unirii Deck continues inside the site. The old structure, built almost 100 years ago and in an advanced state of deterioration, has been replaced, with the full new concrete slab targeted for completion by the end of the year.

“

Everything will be repaired or replaced, made safe and cleaned.