Ayesa secures contract to replace iconic Italian bridge

The Casalmaggiore bridge over the River Po in the province of Parma. Photo: Ayesa

Ayesa will partner on the project with the Italian engineering firm Enser, leading the design and providing technical and economic feasibility services for a new 1,200m bridge connecting the cities of Colorno and Casalmaggiore in the Parma region.

The proposal, jointly submitted by Ayesa and Enser, was selected from 18 submissions from both local and international engineering consortiums, securing the highest score from Provincia de Parma.

The new structure will replace the Casalmaggiore Bridge, which was commissioned in 1958 and was at one time Italy’s longest bridge.

An inspection in 2017, however, exposed extensive and systematic deterioration in the deck beams, coupled with cracks on the faces of the Gerber saddles – key connections between structural elements of the bridge’s deck.

Innovative approach

The new bridge project will be executed in two phases, with construction taking place parallel to the existing bridge, minimising traffic disruptions during the demolition of the old bridge.

Marisa Chabaneix, chief markets officer for engineering at Ayesa, said, “It is a notable engineering endeavour that demands technical excellence.

“This bridge will enhance connectivity between Lombardy and Emilia-Romagna, contributing to the improved quality of life for the residents of this region.”