Groundbreaking for new Elbe Bridge near Wittenberge: Federal government invests around 120 million euros

According to the ministry, the new structure will span 1,109 meters across the Elbe valley. The width between the railings is to be 13.80 meters. On the eastern side, a three-meter-wide pedestrian and cycle path is planned, intended to make the structure attractive for everyday cycling as well.

Dimensions and Costs of the New Build

The federal government is providing around 120 million euros for the project. Brandenburg's Transport Minister Robert Crumbach (SPD) described the bridge as „Achse für Pendlerinnen und Pendler, für die regionale Wirtschaft und für den Tourismus im Elbtal“. The future Elbe Bridge is also to „ein Ensemble mit der westlich direkt benachbarten Brücke der Autobahn A 14 bilden“.

Federal Transport Minister Patrick Schnieder (CDU) called the connection „eine zentrale Verkehrsader für Anwohner und Pendler“. The new route connects two federal states and at the same time relieves regional traffic.

Saxony-Anhalt's Infrastructure Minister Lydia Hüskens (FDP) pointed to the long-term effects of the project: She sees „mehr Mobilität, bessere Anbindungen an das überregionale Straßennetz und damit mehr Entwicklungsmöglichkeiten der Region“.

Improvements for Cycling and Everyday Mobility

Crumbach also highlighted the improvements for cycling. With the integrated pedestrian and cycle path, crossing the Elbe will become more comfortable and safer for cyclists and pedestrians alike.

Construction begins on the Brandenburg side in Wittenberge. During the construction period, road users must expect diversions, as the old bridge is being demolished and the new one will be built in its place.

Construction Sequence and Timeline

With Monday's symbolic act, the official starting signal has been given for the multi-million-euro project. In three years, the new Elbe Bridge is to be opened to traffic, better connecting the region between Stendal and Prignitz to the supra-regional road network.

The significance of the connection goes beyond pure road traffic: It is part of an axis linking economic areas on both sides of the Elbe and is intended to strengthen tourism in the Elbe valley.