Hamburg, December 22 – The Norderelbe Bridge on the A1 motorway in Hamburg is scheduled to be replaced by a new structure by the end of 2029. To meet this deadline, an accelerated construction procedure will be used for the first time.
Accelerated Construction for a Vital Connection
The completely new motorway bridge is expected to be in place west of the current Norderelbe Bridge within four years. According to Transport Senator Anjes Tjarks (Greens), the Autobahn project company DEGES will expedite the process. “They will start building without the planning approval, which will be submitted retrospectively,” Tjarks stated. DEGES will ensure that the construction contract is tendered in a way that allows for rapid progress.
Construction to Begin by Late 2026
Work on the new bridge could commence as early as the end of next year. The new structure will be significantly wider than the old one, featuring six lanes. This expansion aims to alleviate a crucial bottleneck. “The A1 Norderelbe Bridge is Hamburg’s most important traffic project for motorists and freight forwarders in the port,” Tjarks emphasized. “That’s why I am happy and relieved that we now have the funds to get started.”
Deteriorating Structure and Economic Impact
Time is of the essence, as more than 130,000 vehicles, including numerous heavy trucks, cross the dilapidated old bridge daily. The existing structure is slated for demolition after 2029.
Severe Consequences of Potential Closure
A study by the ADAC concluded that a spontaneous closure of the aging Norderelbe Bridge would have severe consequences for Hamburg’s economy and traffic. The economic damage could amount to over 330 million euros per year.
This topic was broadcast on NDR 90.3 | NDR 90.3 Aktuell | December 22, 2025 | 4:00 PM.
