Comprehensive Renovation of an Important Bridge in Taucha, Germany

Stadtverwaltung Taucha, specifically the Fachbereich Bauwesen, initiated a critical project to renovate a central bridge in the city park, which had significant deficiencies that needed to be addressed.

As part of a routine bridge inspection, serious structural issues were identified. These deficiencies were considered urgent, as large events such as the Ancient Trance Festival 2025 were planned, expecting a high volume of pedestrians and cyclists. This made the renovation necessary, not only for safety reasons but also to ensure the infrastructure could withstand the demands of the upcoming events.

The bridge's original structure consisted of Azobe (Tropical hardwood species) for the railing and support beams, while the deck was made of oak wood. Over time, the support beams were replaced with galvanized steel beams, and after 30 years, the deck was swapped out with a FRP deck. However, some parts of the bridge's railing showed severe weathering damage and were replaced with a new FRP railing. Additionally, the longitudinal beams, made of laminated spruce, had been affected by rot and insect infestation, requiring professional repairs and protection with a new coat of paint and a structural wood protection system.

Watch the video

The video includes a timelapse of the bridge's construction - step by step.

The Advantages of Using FRP in Bridge Construction

The decision to use FRP for the new bridge deck was driven by the need for a durable and low-maintenance solution. The original wooden deck had become very slippery, posing a safety risk. FRP, with its anti-slip surface, provided a significant improvement in slip resistance, making it an ideal choice for the project. The material's advantages didn’t end there; its lightweight nature, ease of handling, and suitability for screw connections made it easy to process, protect, and install, ensuring a straightforward and efficient renovation process.

FRP also offered long-term durability and high load-bearing capacity, which are essential for a bridge located in a busy area. Christian Scholze Ingenieurbau played a key role in the project's success by offering a comprehensive all-inclusive package. This included everything from initial inspections and structural analysis to fabrication planning and on-site delivery and installation. The company's professional approach ensured that the renovation was carried out smoothly and met all expectations.

Christian Scholze has worked with fiberglass as a building material for bridge construction for many years, and as a result, has an extensive understanding of the unique benefits of FRP. His experience with FRP has given him a deep understanding of the material's durability, low-maintenance qualities, and its ability to withstand harsh weather conditions, making it an ideal choice for bridge renovations. In this project, Fiberline provided the necessary FRP materials for both the bridge deck and railing. Their high-performance fiberglass composites played a key role in ensuring that the bridge renovation met both technical and safety requirements. Christian Scholze explains:

"We take pride in delivering seamless, high-quality solutions that address both immediate needs and ensure long-term durability in every project. Our all-inclusive approach ensures that every detail, from the initial inspection to the final installation, is handled with precision and professionalism, delivering bridges that stand the test of time."

Beyond the practical benefits, the use of FRP and other modern materials demonstrates a forward-thinking approach to infrastructure. By opting for durable and innovative solutions, Stadtverwaltung Taucha is investing in a bridge that not only meets current needs but will continue to serve future generations safely and reliably.

"We see every project as an opportunity to improve not just the infrastructure, but also the experience of the people who rely on it every day. By using cutting-edge materials like FRP, we contribute to a safer and more sustainable environment for the community." – Christian Scholze