BRIDGES AHRTAL
Bad Neuenahr-Ahrweiler, Germany

The project involves planning the replacement of the Kurgartenbrücke and Casinobrücke, both destroyed during the 2021 Ahr River flood, along with adjacent public streets, open spaces, and riverbank areas. The urban integration includes the design of the Kurpromenade, bringing the center of Bad Neuenahr closer to the Ahr and incorporating effective flood protection. The promenade is divided into a Shared Space for cycling and vehicular traffic, an upper promenade with flood protection elements, and an Ahrterrasse directly along the water.

The Kirchvorplatz in front of the Martin-Luther-Kirche is transformed into a new focal point with a curved stair structure surrounded by solitary trees. The Kurgartenstraße is designed as a wide promenade with high-quality natural stone paving and an accompanying Lindenallee. The Casinovorplatz is decoupled and transformed into an ecological area with native plantings. The Ahrterrassen provide direct access to the water and integrate a café into the flood protection wall.

The design concept for the bridges aims to restore the natural flow of the river and establish a connection to the landscape. The bridges are intended not to obstruct the river and harmoniously blend into the riverbank promenade. The "white bridges" serve as a transition between the historical city center and the spa area. The Kurgartenbrücke is designed as a boulevard with a high-quality paved surface.

The bridge structures are executed in prestressed concrete construction, with the Kurgartenbrücke having a clear span of 34 m and the Casinobrücke 33 m. Flood protection includes various measures, including robust concrete construction, a direct connection to the abutments, and Kolkschutzelements. The bridges are equipped for different flood events, with the riverbed under the bridges left unfastened to ensure drainage.

The sustainability of the constructions emphasizes their durability and resistance to floods. The use of CO2-reduced concretes and green hydrogen for steel components contributes to reducing the ecological footprint. The tree planting along Lindenstraße is strategically arranged to provide effective shading of traffic areas and prevent road heating in the summer.

Casino bridge Section

Kurgarten bridge Section