Bridge installed over the A2 in just 30 minutes

During the night of 19–20 May 2026, an important milestone was reached in Härkingen: A new pedestrian and bicycle bridge was successfully installed during a 30-minute full closure of the A2. The bridge was prefabricated in a workshop, transported as special cargo, and hoisted into place with precision using a mobile crane. Gruner was responsible for the engineering design and local site supervision of the bridge construction, roadworks, and civil engineering works.

Steel bridge connects Härkingen and Egerkingen

The 40.7 m long, 3.5 m wide bridge is part of the new route for pedestrians and cyclists between the A1 underpass ('Viehdurchlass') and the public transport hub in Egerkingen. Spanning approximately 1.35 km, it safely connects the municipality of Härkingen and the adjacent industrial area to the Egerkingen railway station, crossing the A2 in the process.

The superstructure consists of a welded steel box girder. The utility lines were integrated directly inside the box girder. To minimise the weight of the structure, the deck consists of an orthotropic steel slab with transverse strips. Railings and handrails with integrated lighting provide additional safety and comfort.

Complex installation within a tight timeframe

The installation of the bridge placed high demands on planning and logistics. The A2 was completely closed for half an hour, starting at midnight. During the assembly and disassembly of the mobile crane, traffic was temporarily reduced to one lane towards Zurich and two lanes towards Basel.

Thanks to the detailed preparation and the close coordination between all parties involved, all work was completed on schedule. For further information, please contact Pascal Guignard, Head of Structural Engineering Zurich/Brugg at Gruner.