Brussels Mobility to Install Massive Bicycle and Pedestrian Bridge, Causing A12 Closure
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Brussels, Belgium – A significant traffic disruption is planned for Tuesday and Wednesday as Brussels Mobility prepares to install a new bicycle and pedestrian bridge over the A12 highway. The closure, beginning at 10 a.m.on Tuesday, is necessary to accommodate the placement of the bridge, which will connect the Chinese pavilion with Ossegempark, spanning the Dikke Linde roundabout.
The installation will require the use of three mobile cranes, including Belgium’s largest with a lifting capacity of 700 tons. Officials anticipate reopening the A12 to traffic by 6 a.m. on Wednesday, pending triumphant completion of the hoisting and construction of the bridge approaches.
This project is a key component of the Parkway 21 initiative, a broader effort to transform the heavily trafficked approach roads to the A12 – Van Praetlaan and Vuurkrennenlaan – into a green city boulevard. The redesign prioritizes pedestrian and cyclist access,with the Van Praetlaan being converted into a parkway and dedicated cycling and walking paths being added along both avenues.
according to Steven Fierens of Brussels Mobility, the complete redesign project is slated for completion by the end of 2025, with planting scheduled for this winter and spring. Work on Vuurkriftenlaan is expected to conclude before the start of the new school year, followed by the transformation of the old R21 roadway (Van Praetlaan) into a pedestrian and cycle path.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Brussels Bridge Installation
What is the purpose of the new bicycle and pedestrian bridge?
The bridge will connect the Chinese pavilion with Ossegempark, providing a dedicated safe crossing for cyclists and pedestrians over the A12 roundabout at Dikke Linde.
When will the A12 highway be closed?
The A12 will be closed for traffic starting at 10 a.m. on Tuesday and is expected to reopen by 6 a.m. on Wednesday.
Why is such a large crane needed for the bridge installation?
the bridge is substantial in size and weight, requiring a 700-ton mobile crane – the largest available in Belgium – to lift and rotate it into place.
What is the parkway 21 project?
Parkway 21 is a project to transform the busy approach roads to the A12 into a green city boulevard, prioritizing cyclists and pedestrians.
When will the entire Parkway 21 project be finished?
Brussels Mobility anticipates completing the Parkway 21 redesign project by the end of 2
