Historic Lipova Bridge Reopens for Pedestrians After 23 Years, Road Traffic Banned

The historic metal bridge in Lipova, Arad county, Romania, closed to road traffic for 23 years, is preparing for a partial reopening to pedestrians. The structure, built in 1896 and spanning 144 meters, is a significant landmark for the city. Authorities have decided it will permanently remain a pedestrian-only crossing.

Road traffic was halted two decades ago due to the bridge's deteriorating condition. Rehabilitation efforts commenced in 2023, with an initial completion target of April 2024. However, the project encountered delays, necessitating modifications to the original plan. Local officials opted for prefabricated elements instead of monolithic concrete casting for the roadway to prevent pollution of the Mureș River.

Lipova Mayor Florin Pera stated that the main phase of work is nearly finished. Final concrete pouring and curb installation are pending, followed by architectural lighting. "Although we will open the bridge in a construction site regime, people will be able to circulate without problems," Pera said. He expressed a desire for easier access to Maria Radna Monastery and the train station during a significant upcoming holiday, avoiding the current 500-meter detour via the road bridge.

The project, funded by the government with approximately 13 million lei and contracted for 10.5 million lei, aims to transform the bridge into a solely pedestrian structure. This partial reopening is expected to improve access for locals and pilgrims, and upon full completion, the bridge is anticipated to become a tourist attraction.

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Although we will open the bridge in a construction site regime, people will be able to circulate without problems. We want that on this important holiday, they can have easier access to Maria Radna Monastery and to the train station, without having to detour via the road bridge.