Severe Structural Flaws Halt Amadorio Bridge Works in La Vila

The Town Hall of La Vila Joiosa has temporarily suspended the rehabilitation works on the Amadorio River bridge, known as the Cervantes bridge, after significant unforeseen structural deficiencies were detected in the original project. According to the Urban Planning Councillor, Pedro Ramis, this decision is based on the "principle of utmost caution and responsibility" to ensure public safety and the correct technical and economic execution of the works.

The works officially began on November 5th with the aim of repairing structural damage and restoring the original elements of the bridge, built between 1840 and 1878. However, during the course of the works, especially when lifting the pavement of one of the sidewalks, technicians discovered a serious deficiency in the expansion carried out in the 1950s. That intervention added a lateral strip of just 1.35 meters wide for sidewalks and streetlights, but it was executed without the load distribution slab initially planned, compromising the safety of the deck.

In light of this situation, and in accordance with current technical regulations, the Town Hall has opted to halt the execution while drafting a new project that includes a comprehensive structural intervention. Ramis explained that "current safety criteria require a more ambitious intervention to ensure the stability of this essential infrastructure for the coming decades."

The new plan involves expanding the bridge by an additional meter compared to the initial project, transitioning from a mere restoration to a complete reconstruction of the deck. The future bridge will feature a deck 11 meters wide, with 3.10-meter lanes for vehicle traffic and 2.40-meter sidewalks, of which 2.20 meters will be usable for pedestrian transit. Additionally, railings and streetlights will be replaced, lighting will be improved, and new channels for potable water, telecommunications, and electricity will be incorporated.

The councillor recalled that the Popular Party had already proposed in 2021 to widen the bridge's sidewalks, a request not included in the original project found upon taking office in June 2023. "Fixing the bridge without making it accessible is a missed opportunity," Ramis emphasized, adding that the detected setback has allowed "the initial idea to be revisited" and substantially improve the intervention.

To avoid inconveniences to the public during the summer season, the Town Hall has planned the provisional restoration of two-way traffic and pedestrian access to the bridge, once the unfinished area is protected. The works are expected to resume in October, following the drafting and awarding of the new technical project.

The temporary reopening of vehicular traffic, as detailed by Ramis, will only take place once a technical report signed by the faculty management and municipal technical services is available, certifying the structural safety of the bridge during its provisional use.

Finally, the councillor thanked the residents for their understanding regarding the inconveniences caused by this halt and insisted that "the temporary suspension of these works is a legal obligation and a responsible decision to ensure a safe and technically sound solution."