Installation Timeline and Logistics

The installation operations, a carefully orchestrated dance with the tides and the Port of Waterford, are subject to change, highlighting the complexity of the project. The Hebo 9 sheerleg crane, a behemoth in its own right, will lift each bridge section from its barge at Frank Cassin wharf and transport it upstream to its designated position.

• Wednesday, May 21: North Main Span (65 meters in length)
• Thursday, May 22: South Main Span (65 meters in length)
• friday, May 23: North Approach span (35 meters in length)
• Saturday, May 24: South Approach span (35 meters in length)

Bascule Bridge Design: A Nod to History, A Step Towards the Future

Like the Rice Bridge upstream, this sustainable transport bridge features an opening central span, a design choice that allows river vessels to pass through. Smaller boats can navigate underneath the bridge, tide permitting.

the inclusion of this opening central span preserves the potential for future upstream river transport and creates opportunities for maritime events and festivals,including the possible return of the Tall Ships Festival.

These types of vertical opening bridges are called bascule bridges, from the French term for a balance scale, and originated in medieval Europe as drawbridges to defend castles and towns. While Rice Bridge is a single leaf bascule bridge, opening from one side, the new bridge is a double leaf bascule bridge, opening from both sides of the central span.

once the bridge is installed, the bascule leaves for the opening central span will be tested and put into operation. The bridge finishing works, which include the final surfacing, lighting, street furniture, and parapet railings, will commence, as well as the installation of the downstream bridge pier protection system.

Key Facts and Figures

• The bridge superstructure weighs over 1,000 tonnes,roughly the equivalent of the weight of three Boeing 747 jets laden with fuel on take-off.
• The heaviest section is over 500 tonnes,roughly equivalent to the weight of one Boeing 747.
• The HEBO 9 floating sheerleg crane has a lifting capacity of 800 tonnes and a lifting height of 67m, similar to a 20-story building.
• At 207m, the bridge will be one of the longest city center pedestrian river crossings in Ireland.

Strategic Development and Public access

The fast-tracking of integration works as part of construction of the strategic development zone (SDZ) by Harcourt Developments will facilitate the opening of the bridge to the public in the last three months of 2026.

The steel deck is painted with a light gray matt finish.

The best public vantage point is William Vincent Wallace plaza, directly overlooking the River Suir and bridge alignment. This location is safe, central, and accessible, with clear views of barge movements, crane lifts, and installation activities. Only designated, approved drone operators are permitted to fly in this zone during the sustainable transport bridge installation window.

Installation is not a single big lift. It will take four days to complete, so there are plenty of opportunities to view the process. Please do not enter active work zones, wharves, or construction areas, added a spokesperson.

Bridge Comparisons

To put the bridge’s size into perspective:

• Sean O’Casey Bridge in Dublin (central opening span): 98m long
• Athlone greenway bridge (crosses the shannon): 104m long

FAQ

When will the bridge open to the public?

The bridge is expected to open in the last three months of 2026.

Where is the best place to watch the installation?

William Vincent wallace Plaza offers the best public vantage point.

What is a bascule bridge?

A bascule bridge is a type of drawbridge that uses a hinged,pivoting section to allow boats to pass.

How heavy is the bridge?

The bridge superstructure weighs over 1,000 tonnes.