“I am pleased that during the week of the national holiday we can open the renovated pedestrian Vanšu bridge, which after almost 40 years of service has gained a new lease of life in order to continue to provide comfortable transportation opportunities for every city resident. May Vansītis, fondly called by the people of Valmiera, continue to ensure the connection of the two banks of the Gauja, mobility and serve an active lifestyle! The restoration of the bridge was a much-awaited investment – various campaigns were organized and suggestions were received so that the bridge would be illuminated and accessible to all population groups. The people of Valmiera want to be on the move, that’s why we paid great attention to the bridges and walkways, so that they are comfortable and safe for people with mobility impairments, cyclists and parents who take their children for walks in the fresh air,” said Jānis Baiks, Chairman of the Valmiera Municipality Council at the time of the opening. .
The pedestrian bridge is 145 m long, the bridge has a symmetrical cable system construction with a 112 m long middle span and 16.5 m long side spans, with 2 pylons at a height of 18 m, the bridge width is 4.3 m, of which the sidewalk part is 2.69 m. Restoration of the bridge started on November 1, 2023. As the first dismantling works. Initially, it was planned to only partially replace the concrete slabs of the bridge deck, however, after dismantling the cover, it was concluded that the concrete slabs were damaged and all of them should be replaced with new ones. New reinforced concrete cornices have been built along the entire length of the bridge, the span-bearing beams have also been reinforced, all steel structures have been cleaned and painted. Some of the reinforced concrete structures were built anew, the others were renovated and treated with tinted anti-corrosion and anti-graffiti coatings. The hexagonal shrouds of the bridge have also been cleaned and their tightness has been restored in the places where the shrouds are attached to the structure of the anchor supports. In parallel with the reconstruction works of the bridge structure, the construction works of various systems and equipment were carried out, which are important for both the longevity and functionality of the bridge. Accordingly, a surface water drainage system for the bridge was dismantled and built, waterproofing and covering construction works were carried out, new stainless steel railings were built, full-fledged bridge lighting was built anew.
Considerable construction works have also been carried out on both banks of the Gauja. New approaches have been built at both ends of the bridge that connect to existing roads and paths, with slopes that provide environmental accessibility that is sure to be appreciated by people with reduced mobility, cyclists and families with strollers. On the right bank of the Gauja River (side of the stage), a 3 m wide asphalted walkway with environmental accessibility was built, as well as two stairs and 2.5 – 3.5 m wide gravel paths that connect to the already existing forest paths. On the left bank (Pārgauja side), a 2.5 m wide asphalted connection with Ōades iela was built, as well as 3 m wide graveled approaches, connecting the bridge with the existing paths. The territory is cleaned and well-arranged.
Several improvements were also made during the restoration to make it safer and more convenient for every resident of the city to move over the bridge. Energy-efficient lights have been installed in the handrails on the bridge and on the supports at both ends of the bridge. For the safety of citizens and for infrastructure maintenance, video cameras have been installed to monitor the bridge and its approaches. On the other hand, crossing the bridge will be accompanied by music from now on.
The bridge, which was built in 1985, has not undergone significant reconstruction until now. Looking back in history, this unique structure was built by the eighth precinct of the 8th road construction district of Smiltene under the leadership of Mārtiņas Brīvības. The authors of the bridge project are Jānis Zavickis and Rūdolfs Gruberts, designers of the bridge section of the “Ceļuprojekts” institute[1]. It is interesting that the renovation construction project was developed and authored by AS “Ceļuprojekts”. At that time, the construction workers said that they had to do such a difficult job for the first time, but they deservedly promised that the bridge would serve the Valmiers and the city’s guests, measuring it by hundreds and thousands of pedestrians. The construction and operation of the bridge has been followed for almost 40 years by the journalist of the “Liesma” newspaper Guntis Vīksna, who also gave an insight into the history at the opening event after the restoration and told what makes the bridge special from the point of view of local history. On the other hand, after the opening event, you could learn more about the bridges of Valmiera by going on an excursion together with local researchers and guides Ineta Amoliņa and Agita Lapsa, learning about the history of the Vanšu Bridge and other Valmiera bridges – the Center Bridge and the Iron Bridge.
In accordance with the results of the procurement and the contract, the works were carried out by SIA “Limbažu ceļi”. Total construction costs EUR 994,868.61, including design, construction, author supervision and construction supervision expenses. The renovation works were put into operation on November 13, 2024. The construction works were carried out by the municipality of Valmiera region with the funds of the municipality’s budget (15% planned in the budget, 85% attracted in the form of a loan from the State Treasury). A positive opinion of the Ministry of Transport was received for obtaining the loan, as an important infrastructure investment project of the municipality of Valmiera region.
[1] January 1, 1986 newspaper “Liesma” (No. 1), article by I. Ozolniekas.
What were the key features added to the Vanšu bridge renovation to enhance accessibility for all residents?
Interview between Time.news Editor and Bridge Restoration Expert
Editor: Welcome, everyone, to this special edition of Time.news! Today, we have the pleasure of speaking with Jānis Baiks, the Chairman of the Valmiera Municipality Council, and an expert on infrastructure development, to discuss the recent renovation of the iconic Vanšu bridge. Thank you for joining us, Mr. Baiks!
Jānis Baiks: Thank you for having me! It’s great to be here to share this milestone with the community.
Editor: The opening of the renovated Vanšu bridge is certainly a cause for celebration. Can you tell us why this project was so significant for the residents of Valmiera?
Baiks: Absolutely! The Vanšu bridge, or as we fondly call it, “Vansītis,” has been a vital link between the two banks of the Gauja River for nearly 40 years. It symbolizes connection and mobility for our community. The renovation was essential not just for aesthetics, but for ensuring comfort and accessibility for all residents, including those with mobility impairments, cyclists, and families with young children.
Editor: That’s quite inspiring. You mentioned accessibility—what specific features were added to ensure the bridge serves all?
Baiks: We paid special attention to building sustainable pathways leading to the bridge. New approaches were constructed with slopes that facilitate access for everyone. For example, there’s a 3-meter wide asphalted walkway on the right bank, along with various pathways connecting to existing forest trails. Safety was paramount, which is why we’ve installed energy-efficient lighting and surveillance systems as well.
Editor: Safety and accessibility are crucial for public infrastructure. I understand significant structural enhancements were also made. Can you highlight some of the key upgrades?
Baiks: Certainly! The bridge’s concrete slabs were found to be in worse condition than anticipated, so we replaced all of them. We reinforced the span-bearing beams, cleaned and painted steel structures, and even restored the tightness of the bridge’s hexagonal shrouds. All these upgrades were complemented by the installation of new stainless steel railings and a full-scale lighting setup to ensure visibility and safety.
Editor: It sounds like a comprehensive effort was made. What’s particularly exciting about this renovation is the blend of technology and art. You mentioned music accompanying the bridge crossing. Can you elaborate on that?
Baiks: Yes! We wanted to infuse a sense of joy into the experience of crossing the bridge. With the installation of the new sound system, pedestrians will enjoy music as they walk. We believe this adds an inviting atmosphere and enhances the overall connectivity of our community.
Editor: That’s a delightful touch! Looking at the history of the bridge, it’s impressive to see how far infrastructure has come since its construction in 1985. How do you see this renovation influencing future projects in Valmiera?
Baiks: This project sets a benchmark for future developments. It showcases how we can merge modern technology with community needs, reinforcing our commitment to sustainable and inclusive urban design. I believe it will inspire other projects that prioritize accessibility and environmental considerations across the city.
Editor: Thank you for your insights, Mr. Baiks! It’s encouraging to see local initiatives that prioritize community well-being. Any final thoughts you would like to share with our audience?
Baiks: I encourage everyone in Valmiera to make use of the new Vanšu bridge and explore the pathways around it. This bridge is not just a structure; it represents our community’s spirit of connection, mobility, and active lifestyles. Let’s embrace this new chapter together!
Editor: Thank you once again for your time and perspective, Mr. Baiks. It’s been a pleasure discussing this significant development, and we look forward to seeing how it positively impacts the residents of Valmiera!
Baiks: Thank you for having me! It was a pleasure talking with you.