A pedestrian and cycle bridge in Warsaw is being cleaned so that the surface regains its original appearance. The effects are visible to the naked eye – the cleaned sections are significantly different from those that are still waiting their turn. Despite the maintenance work, the bridge remains accessible to pedestrians and cyclists, allowing them to use the crossing freely.
The pedestrian and bicycle bridge, which opened in March and connects the two sides of the Vistula, immediately gained popularity among residents and tourists. The crossing not only provides a convenient route, but is also an architectural highlight. Unfortunately, intensive use soon took its toll on the condition of the surface – tyre marks appeared on the floor and the light colour faded, giving the crossing a grey and neglected appearance.
The footbridge before washing. Photo by Cybular, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons
In order to restore the aesthetics of the bridge, the City Roads Authority has ordered a thorough cleaning of the surface. The work started in the middle of last week and is being carried out in stages, mainly during the evening and night hours, to minimise inconvenience to users. With this schedule, it is possible to keep traffic moving on the bridge, with only the sections being cleaned being temporarily cordoned off.
The first effects of the work are impressive – the cleaned surfaces look almost as they did on the opening day. Most of the dirt has been removed, including the previously visible tyre marks, and the surface has regained its bright colour. The difference between the cleaned and dirty parts is enormous.
The City Road Authority is appealing to pedestrians and cyclists to be careful and use the bridge responsibly. Although some marks, especially those after sudden braking, remain visible, greater care for the surface could prolong its aesthetic appearance. Taking care of the bridge together could make it a showpiece of Warsaw for years to come.
The cost of the works amounted to PLN 150,000. Although the cleaning of the footbridge effectively improves its aesthetics, the City Road Authority stresses that the surface will need to be refreshed again in the future. As an object exposed to intensive use and weather conditions, the bridge requires regular maintenance. For the moment, however, users can enjoy its renewed appearance, and the whole process is expected to be completed later this week. However, the disfiguring scribbles left by vandals remain a pressing problem. Let us hope that these too will soon be removed.
Source: ZDM in Warsaw
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