New Kattwyk railway bridge

The Challenge

The original Kattwyk Bridge, a combined road and railway lift bridge over the Süderelbe, has connected the districts of Wilhelmsburg and Moorburg since its construction. Over time, increasing traffic volumes and evolving logistical demands in the Port of Hamburg revealed the limitations of the existing structure. To ensure future capacity and efficiency, the Hamburg Port Authority initiated plans in 2008 to construct a dedicated railway bridge, allowing the original bridge to be retained for road traffic.

The Solution

Tractebel was responsible for the construction of a new railway lift bridge adjacent to the existing structure, along with a supply culvert to support operational needs. The project was designed to meet modern engineering standards while maintaining seamless integration with the port’s infrastructure. By separating road and rail traffic, the solution enhances safety, reliability, and throughput for both transport modes.

The Impact

The new railway bridge now meets the rising logistical demands of the Port of Hamburg, significantly improving transport efficiency and capacity. This strategic infrastructure upgrade supports the port’s continued growth and strengthens its role as a key hub in European trade. Tractebel’s contribution demonstrates its expertise in delivering complex transport infrastructure tailored to future mobility needs..