Getting on the network

A network arch was selected for the design of a replacement bridge over the River Luznice at the historic location of Bechyne in the Czech Republic. The network arch is a very light steel arch with prestressed concrete ties and inclined hangers that cross each other at least twice. The location called for a slender and fragile structure with a low static height, giving clearance for the predicted hundred-year flood level whilst retaining the existing vertical alignment. The bridge has one traffic lane and two footways. The main load-bearing structure has two steel arches and a prestressed concrete strip. The network layout hangers are fixed to both the arches and the slab. The bridge was built by contractor Swietelsky. Fabrication of the steel structure was by DT Vyhybkarna a Mostarna. Details are given of the bridge construction, pavement, waterproofing and bridge lighting.