Ederdorf" cycle and footpath bridge in Frankenberg

As part of the comprehensive modernisation programme ‘Frankenberg 2020’, the family of bridges consisting of the three block girder bridges Wehrweide, Wildpark and Ederdorf represent the central elements of the new cycling concept. The sustainable junctions of the new attractive cycle traffic axis – in the same design with lengths of approx. 60, 80 and 90 metres – create short, safe and natural connections between living, working and leisure.

The bridge will connect Ederdorf, a residential neighbourhood that is home to around 40% of Frankenberg’s population, with the areas of the town centre to the south of the Eder. The new bridge is being built as a protected wooden bridge, with the design following the recommendations for cycle traffic facilities (ERA) and taking into account gradients of less than 6% to ensure barrier-free use.

The design of the bridge structure in this natural environment is the result of a skilful combination of the local topography, the connected paths and the adaptation to the optimal hydraulic course of the southern ramp. The result is an elegant curved bridge with two supporting pillars in the Eder foreland, which connects the connection points to the continuing paths. As a beam bridge, the structure blends discreetly into the landscape without overpowering the natural scenery.

The bridge is designed as a two-span system and has a support in the northern foreland. The structural requirements are met by a dynamic cross-section, whereby the maximum structural height above the supports ensures that the centre span over the Eder has a particularly slender appearance. In accordance with the Fulda flood risk management plan, an HQ100 of 272.62 metres above sea level is taken into account in the planning.

The main structure consists of two curved parallel girders made of block-bonded upright glulam beams, which are stepped at the sides to give them a trapezoidal cross-section with a constant width. The decking consists of large-format prefabricated reinforced concrete slabs that rest on a timber substructure and protrude laterally beyond the timber supporting structure. A lateral gradient of 1.0 % ensures effective lateral drainage, while an epoxy resin coating in combination with a fine gravel ensures a safe, non-slip surface.