A challenging crane operation was scheduled for the weekend of September 12 and 13, 2026, in Solothurn. As part of the renovation of the SBB Aare Bridge, EMIL EGGER used a 750-metric-ton crawler crane to lift a total of eleven steel components for the new bridge structure.
The heaviest components weighed up to 71 metric tons. The required reaches were particularly extraordinary: Individual lifts were performed with a reach of up to 108 meters. The crawler crane used for this task was configured with a boom length of 126 meters.
Precision Work in Confined Spaces
One of the project’s main challenges was the limited space around the construction site. Buildings, trees, existing utility lines, and the adjacent rail infrastructure significantly restricted the available space.
Even the positioning and configuration of the crawler crane therefore required detailed planning. During the actual lifts, the heavy steel components then had to be guided precisely over long distances to their intended assembly locations.
Eight bridge segments and three crossbeams were installed within about 36 hours. The largest segments are up to 36 meters long.
A new bridge is being built next to the existing Aare Bridge
The existing double-track SBB Aare Bridge connects Solothurn with Solothurn West and is part of the Solothurn–Biel rail line. Due to its age, it is being replaced by a new steel-concrete composite bridge. The project is called “Reprise” and takes into account not only operational requirements but also the bridge’s historical significance for Solothurn’s cityscape.
The new structure will initially be pre-assembled next to the existing bridge over the Aare River. It is scheduled to be moved into its final position during an extended road closure at Easter 2027. It is scheduled to open in 2027, with final work to follow in 2028.
For EMIL EGGER, this project demonstrates once again what can be achieved—even under exceptionally challenging conditions—with careful planning, high-performance crane technology, and an experienced team.
You are currently viewing a placeholder content from YouTube. To access the actual content, click the button below. Please note that doing so will share data with third-party providers.
More Information
