One of the most anticipated and technically complex stages in the construction of the new pedestrian and cycling bridge over the Neris River has begun in Vilnius. Massive timber arches and beams have started to be installed above the river, connecting the riverbanks and forming the outline of the future bridge by autumn.

This project is not only a new connection, but also a distinctive engineering and architectural landmark in the capital. Its main load-bearing structures are made of timber, which is a rare and sustainable solution for infrastructure projects of this scale in Lithuania.

The Structures Impress with Their Size and Weight

One of the most responsible and complex moments of the construction process, requiring special preparation, is moving the massive timber arches and beams from one riverbank to the other.

“The works are organised so that the structures are first assembled at the construction site near A. Goštauto Street. Then, a giant crane with a lifting capacity of as much as 700 tonnes moves the assembled arch over A. Goštauto Street and the Neris River so that its ends land precisely on both riverbanks,” said Eduardas Grinaveckas, CEO of Tilsta.

According to E. Grinaveckas, the timber structure elements will be installed from both banks of the Neris – from the A. Goštauto Street side and from the Upės Street side. In total, 180 different timber components will be assembled above the river, fixed to the already prepared concrete supports and connected to one another using special joints.

The size and weight of the elements are impressive. The longest beam is as much as 39 metres long, 1.40 metres high and 0.40 metres wide. The heaviest element weighs around 20 tonnes.

For safety reasons, during the installation of the structures, the movement of boats and other watercraft under the bridge under construction will be restricted on 7–8 July. In addition, during daylight hours, car traffic on A. Goštauto Street will be briefly stopped several times a day.

The intensive installation works are planned to continue until autumn. Once they are completed, Vilnius residents and visitors will already be able to clearly see the silhouette of the future bridge.