Äänekoski builds replacement for bridge serving the city for decades

A new bridge is taking shape over Lake Äänejärvi in Äänekoski, replacing a structure that has served the city and local industrial transport for more than half a century, Yle reports.

Construction began in June and includes about one kilometre of new road. The project is estimated to cost 15.3 million euros. Sami Honkanen, project manager at the Finnish Transport Infrastructure Agency, said the work had stayed on schedule through the summer and early autumn.

Crews have built foundations and a temporary work bridge beneath the existing bridge, and work on the new bridge’s supporting structures has begun. Construction is being carried out from the temporary bridge. Because the work is close to the water, its effects on the lake and water quality are being monitored closely.

Honkanen said the new bridge could open as early as next October if winter conditions are favourable. The 1950s bridge is due to be replaced by 2027, with its demolition continuing until 2028.

Traffic arrangements have caused less disruption than some residents expected, but access to the nearby Wille restaurant has been difficult. Owner Timo Honkonen said the works reduced the restaurant’s revenue by more than 60 per cent compared with a normal summer.