Renovation Mexicobridges

The Mexico bridges are located in the Antwerp port area on the right bank of the Scheldt, between the Kattendijk dock and the Hout dock. The current construction is a complex of 2 identical Scherzer-type rolling lift bridges with an electric drive; they were protected and granted monument status in 2001. This renovation was part of the overall “Noorderlijn” project, also known under the technical name Brabo II, the aim of which was to make the north of Antwerp accessible by tram over several phases of works.

The bridges were adapted as part of a thorough, total renovation so that a two-way tram line could be constructed over Mexico Bridge East and two-way road traffic would be possible over Mexico Bridge West.

Thanks to the diversity of disciplines available within SBE, this project could be coordinated using an integrated approach. Using strain gauge measurements, the existing condition was examined. A fatigue analysis could then be drawn up and the necessary reinforcements could be designed. The entire electromechanical equipment was also examined and the mechanical bridging was adapted and renewed, among other things.

In addition, a new service building was built as part of the project: it was an extension to the existing service building, which is also protected as a monument. The new building extends over an insulated stretch of quay to the east of the bridge. Both buildings were also renovated and designed by SBE.

During the redevelopment of the Zuidkade in the Hout dock, the quay wall along this building was also renovated to a design created by SBE. The bank protection adjacent to the Mexico bridges and the Kempisch dock were also replaced with new bank protections.

This was published in the media

Take a look at the publication in Archello here