Auxiliary bridge A16

<h5>Why was this auxiliary bridge necessary?</h5>

During the execution of the direct connection between the A16 and A13, De Groene Boog, it became apparent that an existing structure (viaduct) no longer met current safety requirements. The viaduct over the Hoofdweg had to be replaced as soon as possible. Replacing these viaducts is a very complex task, especially in this area. Closing the A16 for a longer period of time was not an option. For this reason, Rijkswaterstaat decided to place two temporary auxiliary bridges in the A16 on the site of one existing viaduct: in the Pentecost weekend of 2024, the outermost, easternmost viaduct will be completely demolished, and this auxiliary bridge will be placed in its place.

<h5> An auxiliary bridge that meets strict requirements</h5>

Temporary bridges are available on the market, but Rijkswaterstaat had very specific requirements for this project. The auxiliary bridge in the A16 had to comply with the ROK (Design Guidelines for Civil Engineering Structures). This is a stricter set of requirements on top of the standard (NEN) standards and guidelines. Civil technieken deBoer was commissioned to install an auxiliary bridge. Rijnstaal upgraded all existing components and made new high-quality components that fully complied with these strict guidelines.

Together with Rijnstaal, deBoer has used existing equipment in a smart way and expanded it where necessary to meet the ROK requirements. This has resulted in a modular auxiliary bridge for the highest traffic class that is not only safe and reliable, but also future-proof. We can reuse this bridge in other situations after this project.

<h5>The assembly process</h5>

Placing the auxiliary bridge under these circumstances was no easy task. The easternmost part of the existing structure was demolished. New foundations were then installed in the form of heavy pile foundations, which also serve as new permanent foundations. The time pressure was high. During the Ascension weekend of 2024, traffic from the A16 and the Hoofdweg had to be diverted so that the road could reopen to traffic on Monday.

The auxiliary bridge itself consisted of four large modules that were pre-fabricated and prepared in the factory and assembled on site. We assembled the 4 parts on site during the weekend using SPMTs (Self-Propelled Modular Transporter). This allowed the auxiliary bridge to be installed quickly and efficiently, during a weekend closure.

<h5>Innovation and sustainability</h5>

One of the key features of this project is that we used existing equipment and thus provided a circular solution. By reusing materials, we not only saved costs but also minimized the impact on the environment.

Furthermore, the auxiliary bridge meets the highest safety requirements, as laid down in the ROK. This is a guarantee for the quality, robustness and durability of our constructions.

<h5>A successful solution for a complex challenge</h5>

The auxiliary bridge in the A16 is an excellent example of how deBoer contributes to innovative solutions for complex infrastructure issues. Thanks to close cooperation with our partners, meticulous and careful preparation, the use of circular materials and a tight organization, we have ensured that traffic at one of the busiest points in the Netherlands experienced as little disruption as possible. In December 2024, the auxiliary bridge has been removed and can be used again for a next project.

Our expertise in temporary construction, combined with our ability to meet stringent requirements, means that deBoer continues to contribute to safe, smart and sustainable solutions for infrastructure in the Netherlands.

Do you have a question about heavy temporary bridges or are you curious about what deBoer can do for your project? Feel free to contact us!