Early Commencement of Traffic on Reconstructed A45 Highway
The much-anticipated resumption of construction on the A45 in Lüdenscheid, Germany, is now expected to occur earlier than originally planned. The closure of the Rahmede valley bridge in late 2021 halted progress on this significant traffic axis, causing substantial disruptions to the city and its economy.
The complex reconstruction of the bridge, consisting of two partial structures, has been underway since October 2023, following the demolition of the Rahmede valley bridge in May 2023 due to the risk of collapse. The initial completion of the first partial structure was targeted for mid-2026, but recent developments suggest that this date may be moved up.
The federal transport minister, Patrick Schnieder, has stated that the project is progressing as expected, and he is scheduled to participate in a citizen's festival in Lüdenscheid on October 4. The festival, referred to as the "final chapter of the A45 closure," is a significant milestone for the city, which has been eagerly awaiting the use of the new bridge on the A45.
The closure of the A45 in the Sauerland region has resulted in significant traffic jams, noise, and exhaust fumes in Lüdenscheid and its surrounding area. It has also disrupted delivery traffic, caused loss of sales, and led to the loss of skilled workers in the city. The city of Lüdenscheid hopes that the bridge could be opened for traffic earlier than previously planned, potentially even before spring 2026.
The A45 is a critical traffic axis connecting the Ruhr region with the Frankfurt metropolitan area, and its resumption of traffic will undoubtedly bring relief to the city and its economy. The minister plans to announce a specific resumption date at the citizen's festival in early October, providing much-needed clarity to the residents of Lüdenscheid.
For the latest updates on the A45 bridge project, it is recommended to check official sources such as the local government or transport authority websites. The exact date of completion of the A45 project remains unknown, but the anticipation continues to build as construction progresses.
The complex reconstruction of the bridge, involving both partial structures in the automotive industry, is expected to be completed earlier than initially anticipated, potentially easing financial strain on the city of Lüdenscheid and its related transportation sector. With the resumption of the A45 traffic expected to boost the industrial and economic growth of the region, the federal transport minister, Patrick Schnieder, may announce a specific resumption date during the upcoming citizen's festival in Lüdenscheid, bringing welcomed clarity to the anticipating residents.
