The overpass of the Poniatowski Bridge in Warsaw, which is more than a hundred years old, is undergoing extensive conservation work to restore it to its former glory. The comprehensive renovation includes both the renewal of the concrete and stone elements and the anti-corrosion protection of the steel parts of the structure.
The renovation of the viaduct covers almost its entire section – from the Warszawa-Powiśle station to Wioślarska Street. This is not an easy task. Due to its status as a historic monument, the use of appropriate technologies and careful planning of the scope of work are required. The viaduct contains many original elements from the time of its construction in 1905-1913, which have been repaired many times, often in an inadequate manner. The need to repair these inadequacies requires additional work, which, however, is not surprising when renovating historic buildings.
The bridge viaduct during renovation. Photo: zdm.waw.pl
Despite the numerous challenges, the renovation of the viaduct is essential. The works are intended not only to extend the life of the structure, but also to improve its aesthetics. As part of the renovation, the staircases and the passage under Jerozolimskie Avenue, connecting the two tram stops, will also be renovated. One of the key elements of the renovation is the restoration of the historic railings. This involves dismantling them and transporting them to a specialist facility, where they will undergo careful conservation. For reasons of pedestrian safety, this work involves the temporary closure of the pavements. At present, the restoration of this one of Warsaw’s most beautiful monuments is focusing on replacing the expansion joints on the viaduct.
An important part of Warsaw’s infrastructure, the Poniatowski Bridge has had a turbulent history, marked by destruction and reconstruction. After the outbreak of the First World War, retreating Russians blew up the bridge on 5 August 1915, destroying two pillars and four spans. A comprehensive reconstruction took place between 1920 and 1927. During World War II, the bridge was manned by the Germans. on 13 September 1944, in the face of approaching Soviet and Polish troops, the occupiers blew up four spans of the bridge and one span of the viaduct. Reconstruction began as early as 1945, and the bridge was opened to traffic on 22 July 1946. At that time, the structure gained a new construction and lost some of its ornamentation, and the elaborate balustrade on a large section was replaced by a simple railing.
Between 1963 and 1966 the bridge was widened, separating the tram track. The last major renovation was carried out between 1985 and 1990, replacing the entire steel structure of the viaduct with a wider one. The concrete elements were clad in a reinforced overlay, recreating the original surface appearance, and the trackway was raised.
Thanks to the renovation currently underway, the viaduct will become safer and regain some of its former charm.
Source: zdm.waw.pl
Read also: Architecture in Poland | Metamorphosis | Renovation | Monument | Warsaw
