The scaffolding creates a tunnel-like structure over Parkbron. The work platform, which will be attached to the sides, has not yet been installed.
Originally, Parkbron was slated to reopen on Monday, but its scaffolding assembly has been delayed by two weeks. This delay, attributed to material shortages and fewer workers than promised, means the bridge will remain closed.
Adding to the concern, Skellefteå municipality is still assessing whether cars can even be allowed on Parkbron while workers are on a platform beneath it, due to the risk of vehicles colliding with the scaffolding and causing workers to fall into the river.
— Once the work platform is installed, we will make an assessment, says Tomas Nilsson, project manager at Skellefteå municipality.
If a decision is made to keep it closed to cars, Parkbron will not reopen until November, the estimated completion of its underside renovation.
Simultaneously, renovation work on Lejonströmsbron, the closest crossing of the river near to the international English school (IES), will begin as planned this Monday, banning motor traffic until early October to repair the road surface.
Why are these repairs being done simultaneously?
— Both projects have already been delayed by several years, as we were waiting for the Karlgårdsbron to be completed. However, we can't afford to wait any longer, which is why the work is overlapping now, says Nilsson.
Tomas Nilsson says the closure of Parkbron to cars will continue for at least another two weeks. Cyclists and pedestrians can pass throughout the construction period, except when the concrete truck needs access.
The third closure is further upstream at the Båtfors hydroelectric dam, where Skellefteå Kraft is undertaking reconstruction work.
This bridge will also be closed to vehicle traffic from Monday, August 4, until early October. For those needing to cross the Skellefteå River in that area, alternative crossings are available at the Road 370 bridge at Renström or the bridge at the Finnfors power station.
Scaffolding is also in place above the bridge to hold the entire renovation structure together.