Stockholm Finds Solution to Construction Conflict for New Cycle Bridge
Stockholms Lokaltrafik (SL) raised concerns in June about the construction of a new cycle bridge between Gamla stan and Slussen in Stockholm. The organization warned that the construction could disrupt subway traffic, potentially leading to a total stop at Slussen for safety reasons. This would impact several subway lines that are used by over 300,000 daily travelers.
A conflict arose between the city of Stockholm and Region Stockholm, which owns SL. The planned foundation work for the cycle bridge, scheduled to begin on June 28, had to be postponed due to the disagreement.
However, a joint working group consisting of representatives from the city of Stockholm and Region Stockholm has managed to find a new solution for the construction of the cycle bridge in just over two weeks. Kjell Hasslert, chairman of the group, stated that the key was to look ahead and focus on how to ensure the bridge is built while maintaining safe subway traffic. As a result of the group’s efforts, the bicycle bridge has been relocated 12-18 meters away from the subway bridge, and an access ramp has been removed.
The working group’s final report states that a total stoppage of subway traffic is now considered unlikely, although certain traffic restrictions and speed reductions may be necessary during piling works. David Lagneholm, head of the region’s Traffic Administration and SL, expressed his satisfaction with the solution, emphasizing the group’s excellent work. However, further investigations are needed to determine the extent of potential disruptions to subway traffic with the new solution.
Mikael Gustavsson, deputy city manager for the city of Stockholm, also expressed his contentment with the solution and highlighted that while compromises were necessary, the pedestrian and cycle bridge would maintain the same capacity and width. The bridge will have a slight swing instead of being straight. An access ramp on the Södermalm side has also been eliminated.
Gustavsson expects that piling work for the bridge can commence later this year, with the goal of completing the bridge in 2025. Overall, the resolution of the conflict has been seen as a positive outcome for the people of Stockholm.