“The projected execution period [for the modernization contract] is 14 months, during which APDL [Administration of the Ports of Douro, Leixões and Viana do Castelo] guarantees to maintain the bridge’s operability, ensuring the passage of ships, vehicles, and pedestrians. However, a maximum immobilization period of 90 days is expected, which will only occur next year on a date to be announced with due notice.”, stated a response from the port administration to questions posed by Lusa.
According to an official APDL source, “the modernization contract for the Leixões Mobile Bridge has already been awarded,” but traffic restrictions will only occur next year, during which “vehicular traffic will be diverted to the A28, and pedestrian crossing will be assured by buses provided by APDL.”
“If necessary, any interruptions to vehicular traffic will preferably take place at night, allowing pedestrian circulation to remain unchanged during both day and night,” assured the administration led by João Pedro Neves.
The bid for the bridge modernization, costing 4.5 million euros, was launched in 2024 (initially in May and then in September after it was initially unsuccessful), and the project “is funded by PACS [Climate Action and Sustainability Program], under the Sustainable Program 2030 [European funds], with a total investment of 5.63 million euros.”
“Of this amount, 4.5 million is allocated to the main contract, which also includes the installation of new joints and inspection work. The community co-financing rate is 71.19%, with the national share being borne by APDL using its own resources,” explained the port administration.
The modernization encompasses the renovation of the anti-corrosive protection system and painting of the entire structure, as well as the replacement of pedestrian coverings, guardrails, and paving, along with repaving of the vehicular lane.
As part of the contract, the replacement of the joints on this equipment is also planned, which will require its immobilization for a maximum of 90 days.
