Vilnius installs main arches for new Neris River bridge amid traffic limits

Vilnius is installing the main wooden arches and beams for its new pedestrian and cyclist bridge over the Neris River, a technically demanding phase of the project. This significant infrastructure development is set to connect the rapidly growing Saltoniškių and Žvėrynas business quarters with the Lukiškės and Naujamiestis districts.

The municipality highlights the bridge's strategic role in modernizing the city's mobility. It will foster pedestrian and cyclist traffic, bring the river closer to residents, and create new waterfront recreational areas. The project also aims to seamlessly link access to Vingis Park with the city center.

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The new pedestrian and bicycle bridge will play a strategic role in modernizing Vilnius's mobility infrastructure. It will directly connect the rapidly developing Saltoniškių and Žvėrynas business quarter and Upės street with the Lukiškės and Naujamiestis districts.

Constructed with a rare and sustainable use of wood for its primary load-bearing structures, the bridge is an engineering and architectural highlight. The installation process involves a 700-ton crane lifting pre-assembled arches and beams from the riverbank to their precise positions. Each wooden element is substantial, with the longest beam measuring 39 meters and weighing up to 20 tons.

Traffic restrictions are in place on A. Goštauto Street until August 31 due to the construction. While traffic will largely continue on the second lanes, brief traffic stops of 2-3 minutes will occur several times daily during daylight hours, excluding peak times. Alternative routes are recommended, and the initial beam installation began on July 7-8, also impacting river traffic in a specific section.

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The works are organized so that the structures are first assembled at the construction site near A. Goštauto street. Then, a giant crane, with a lifting capacity of up to 700 tons, lifts the assembled arch over A. Goštauto street and the Neris River so that its ends land precisely on both banks.