The repair of the Zeleňák bridge in Pardubice is expected to last until the end of November

Pardubice – The repair of the Zeleňák bridge in Pardubice, which the city closed due to its poor condition, will be completed by the end of November. Work is already visible after a few days; the bridge has received a new deck. It will connect the Višňovka and Pardubičky districts over the Chrudimka River, serving pedestrians and cyclists. Jan Nadrchal (ANO), the deputy mayor, said this to ČTK today.

"We are repairing the bridge for an acceptable price of 7.3 million crowns. We will connect the banks of the Chrudimka from Pardubičky to city district V; the nearest bridge is the footbridge at Vinice, but it leads to a different area," Nadrchal said.

For safety reasons, the city has closed two bridges in the natural area of Červeňák. The Zeleňák is being repaired, while the Červeňák bridge is kept out of operation due to its greater damage. According to Nadrchal, repairing or building a new bridge is not worthwhile for the city.

"Červeňák is in a catastrophic state. We are not currently planning its reconstruction or replacement; it would cost between 30 and 60 million crowns. And considering that a northeastern bypass and cycling path will run nearby, its repair is pointless," Nadrchal stated.

The Zeleňák bridge will be for pedestrians and cyclists only, even though it will have a load capacity of 3.5 tons, and in exceptional cases, vehicles like ambulances or fire trucks may use it. However, motorists will not be able to cut their route through it starting December when the repairs are completed, Nadrchal added.

Workers have been working on the repairs for about ten days, and changes are already visible. "We are replacing beams, the structure, and planks. The bridge was in a deplorable state. People are trying to walk across it. Apparently, some climbed over the railing and took photos on the bridge on Saturday. People are curious. Even in a secured construction site, something might happen to them," said Daniel Mandys from MP Střechy-Sport to ČTK.

The Červeňák area was originally a military training ground that the city acquired for free from the army last year. The Zeleňák dates back to 1946 and originally served for vehicles as well. It is named after its now poorly preserved green coating.

The area around the river is a European significant locality with protected species. Based on an agreement with the army, the city cannot commercially use, sell, or rent the area for 20 years, and it must maintain its natural character. Smaller changes will be proposed in a territorial study that will be completed by the end of the year. "In my opinion, it will be more cosmetic adjustments," Nadrchal added.