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Commissioned by Rijkswaterstaat, Van Hattum en Blankevoort, KWS Infra, and Iv in Schiedam are working on the renovation and partial replacement of three overpasses on the A4 and A20. The viaducts in question are the Hargalaan, Zoomweg, and Bijdorp viaducts, which, after decades of intensive use, are in need of large-scale maintenance and renovation. The work is being carried out on behalf of Rijkswaterstaat. It is a challenging project that requires precision engineering.
Iv is providing the comprehensive engineering services for the structural elements and road design on behalf of Van Hattum and Blankevoort. The Hargalaan and Zoomweg viaducts are located at the Kethelplein interchange (A4/A20) and are undergoing renovation. As part of this work, the bridge decks will be temporarily raised so that damage to the main girders can be repaired and structural components can be replaced.
The Bijdorp viaduct is located east of this interchange on the A20. This viaduct requires more extensive work. Here, the existing decks will be replaced with new decks that will rest on their own foundations. The existing central support will be removed, resulting in a more spacious and clearly laid-out underpass for cyclists and pedestrians. The new design also provides space for ecological features.
The biggest challenge lies not only in the design, but above all in the feasibility of construction. A significant portion of the work must be carried out during short road closure periods. This calls for solutions that are structurally robust and can be implemented efficiently.
During the preparatory phase, Iv’s 3D scanning vehicle was used to create a detailed map of the existing conditions. This information is crucial for ensuring that the designs actually fit within the existing conditions. Once the renovation is complete, the viaducts will be good for decades to come.
“These are the kinds of projects that get us excited as engineers. The combination of existing structures, a limited construction timeline, and the location within a heavily used infrastructure network calls for smart and feasible solutions. It’s precisely that challenge that makes this project so interesting,” said Steven Rijnbergen, project manager at Iv.
