ADVERTISING
Hessen Mobil is starting tree work and species protection measures in preparation for the demolition of the valley bridge
As part of the closure of the valley bridge near Bad König/Zell on Federal Highway 45, preparatory work for the planned demolition began on Monday (May 27). Hessen Mobil, in coordination with the Lower Nature Conservation Authority, is carrying out tree removal and species protection measures. The aim is to demolish the dilapidated bridge, which has been completely closed since the end of April 2025, as quickly as possible.
Around the valley bridge, grasses, brambles, and shrubs are currently being cut back. Several trees—including black alders and a maple—also have to be felled because they are located in the immediate danger zone of the bridge or within the construction area. The work also serves to establish the construction site logistics.
Simultaneously, the already installed hazel dormouse nests are being monitored to document the presence of protected species. Appropriate ecological compensation measures are planned after completion of the construction work.
Safety area below the bridge closed
Last week, the area below the valley bridge was cordoned off extensively. Construction fences prevent access to the cycle paths and farm tracks that run under the bridge to eliminate the risk of falling concrete debris.
The bridge spans the Mümling river and a railway line and is an important traffic hub in the Odenwald region. At the end of April, experts discovered critical cracks in the concrete during bridge inspections, leading to the immediate closure of the B 45 highway in both directions.
Task force established for bridge closure
Hessen Mobil has established a project task force that is currently working on a concrete timetable for the dismantling of the bridge. All possibilities for accelerating the planning process are to be exhausted. The participating authorities have announced their intention to actively support the process – despite the complex environmental regulations at the site of the valley bridge.
Hessen Mobil provides further information, including an FAQ about the bridge closure, online at mobil.hessen.de/service/faq-reihe/talbruecke-b45-bad-koenig
(RED)
