Danish Motorway to Close for 18 Hours for Bridge Demolition

The Østjyske Motorvej, a vital artery between Hedensted and Horsens, faces an 18-hour closure this weekend as authorities demolish a 38-year-old, 2,354-ton bridge. The operation, scheduled to begin Saturday afternoon and conclude Sunday morning, is a necessary step in the ongoing expansion of the motorway to six lanes.

Officials from the Road Directorate are urging motorists to adhere to the signed detour routes. "It is a hub, so we encourage people to stay on the detour routes, which are signposted," said duty officer Jacob Majgård Christensen. They caution against using alternative local roads, as this could lead to increased congestion at municipal intersections.

“

It is a hub, so we encourage people to stay on the detour routes, which are signposted.

While precise traffic impact figures are unavailable, project manager John Kjærsgaard anticipates at least a half-hour delay for affected travelers. "There might be minor accidents or stalled vehicles, but if not, you should perhaps expect a half-hour delay," he stated. The directorate suggests altering travel times, either before 3:00 PM or after 8:00 PM on Saturday, or postponing the journey until Sunday.

This demolition marks the final of nine bridges to be removed as part of the 38-kilometer expansion project between Vejle and Skanderborg. The work involves adapting ramps, bridges, and intersecting roads to accommodate the wider motorway.

“

There might be minor accidents or stalled vehicles, but if not, you should perhaps expect a half-hour delay.