The Poudrerie bridge has reopened after five months of restoration, allowing pedestrians, cyclists, and light vehicles to cross safely.
Bridge reopened to traffic
The Poudrerie bridge has reopened to traffic after five months of restoration work. The project aimed to secure the bridge and allow for the coexistence of different modes of transport, such as pedestrians, cyclists, and vehicles.Restrictions on heavy vehicles
The bridge remains closed to vehicles weighing more than 3.5 tonnes. This restriction is in place to ensure the safety and longevity of the structure, which has undergone significant restoration.Historical background of the bridge
Built at the end of the 19th century and rebuilt in 1930, the Poudrerie bridge has a long history. A major restoration project was undertaken to ensure its continued use and to address structural issues caused by years of wear and tear.Restoration work details
The restoration involved repairing or replacing degraded metal parts due to corrosion, replacing corroded rivets, and removing old paint in a way that protected the environment. A new anti-corrosion system was applied, and brick masonry piles were restored. The bridge's deck was also reconstructed, and the sidewalks were reconfigured.Improved accessibility and safety
Pedestrians now have a single, widened sidewalk for safer and more comfortable movement. Cyclists can travel on the roadway in both directions, while motorized vehicles are restricted to one-way traffic heading towards Ramier island at a speed limit of 20 km/h.Funding for the project
Toulouse Métropole allocated 2.5 million euros to the renovation project of the Poudrerie bridge. This funding supported the extensive work required to restore and modernize the structure for continued use.