The project consisted of the reconstruction and extension of the existing bridge in Cheste following the severe flooding of October 2024.
Although the original concrete arch bridge remained standing, the floodwaters eroded the terrain behind one of the abutments, creating a 30-metre-wide void and significantly altering the topography of the ravine.
The original structure dated from 1920 and had been extended in 1970, both phases comprising four 12-metre-span mass concrete arches. Initial testing revealed that the strength of the existing concrete was too low to comply with current standards, making it unfeasible to upgrade the former structure.
As a result, the final solution extended beyond the originally damaged area and replaced the bridge with a new structure formed by three composite steel trough girders with a concrete slab. The geometry of the new bridge recalls the shape of the former arches, maintaining continuity with the historical configuration while providing a structure compliant with current regulations.
Foundation reinforcement measures were implemented as required, including piles, micropiles and new pile caps, in order to ensure adequate performance under the updated design criteria.
We provided structural engineering services for inspection, assessment, demolition and reconstruction design under emergency conditions.
