Construction of the New Dresden Carola Bridge set for completion by 2031
The demolition of the old Carolabridge in Dresden, a prestressed concrete bridge from the DDR era, is currently underway, with remaining works ongoing on both sides of the Elbe river [1]. The city has announced that the terrace embankment for the Carolabridge is expected to be passable again from mid-September [2].
The collapse of the Carolabridge in September 2024 did not result in any reported injuries. The city intends to replace the bridge with a new four-lane bridge to restore this important Elbe river crossing in Dresden [1].
The construction of the new Carolabridge is scheduled to begin in the second quarter of 2028 and is expected to be completed by the year 2031 [1]. Tender documents for the new bridge design will be published in early September 2025 [1]. Four architectural offices will be commissioned to submit specific designs, which will be publicly presented and discussed by the end of May 2026 [1].
In the meantime, repairs for the Elbe cycle path and the Elbe meadows will be assessed after the conclusion of the Film Nights at the end of August [1]. The roadway and footpaths for the terrace embankment are expected to be repaired by the time it becomes passable again [2].
The demolition of the Carolabridge has provided new views of the old town, and the city is looking forward to the selection of the winning design for the new bridge [1]. No further details about the design or specific features of the new bridge have been mentioned [1].
References: [1] City of Dresden, Press Release, "Carolabridge Demolition and New Construction Timeline", 1st September 2025. [2] City of Dresden, Press Release, "Carolabridge Terrace Embankment to Reopen in September", 2nd August 2025.
The new Carolabridge, scheduled for completion by 2031, will significantly impact the transportation industry in Dresden, providing a crucial public-transit crossing over the Elbe river. The city's finance department has allocated funds for the construction, along with the publication of tender documents for bridge design in September 2025.
