The Alda Bridge, spanning across Fossvogur, was presented to the Environment & Planning Council of Reykjavík City this week. Preparations for the tender process are well underway, with two separate tenders being readied - one for the embankments and another for the bridge construction. The Alda Bridge is designed for pedestrians and cyclists and plays a crucial role in the route of the CityLine across Fossvogur.
Tenders in spring and summer
The first of two tenders, focusing on the embankments, is scheduled for this spring. This includes embankments in Skerjafjörður.
The tender for the construction of the bridge and land formation is planned for mid-summer. The latter includes provisions for 900 tons of steel for the bridge's superstructure, which will consist of five spans with a concrete deck. Large precast units are expected to be used for the pillars and superstructure. The bridge will be 270 meters in length.
Both tenders will need to consider the operations of Reykjavík Airport and the impact of air traffic on the embankment and bridge construction activities.
Work on the embankments begins at Kársnes
Work on the embankments is estimated to start this summer, beginning at Kársnes. Early next year, construction on the bridge and embankments on the Reykjavík side is expected to commence. Plans are also in place to start embankment work in Skerjafjörður in 2026, concurrently with the bridge construction. Completion of the project is anticipated in 2027.
Transforming outdoor recreation opportunities
Beyond being a vital transportation link, the bridge transforms recreational opportunities in the area. A walking path on the east side of the bridge connects a five-kilometer walking and running route around Fossvogur. This offers beautiful views over diverse outdoor recreation areas and the shoreline of Fossvogur. From stopping points along the walking path on the bridge, there’s also a splendid view to the west across Skerjafjörður.
Part of the Transportation Charter
The design of Alda has been under development since 2022 by EFLA, the engineering firm, for the CityLine in cooperation with the CityLine Project Office, the Icelandic Road and Coastal Administration, Reykjavík City, and Kópavogur Town. Fossvogur Bridge is part of projects under the Transportation Charter of the Capital Area, a 2019 agreement between the state and the six municipalities of the capital area.
The estimated cost of the bridge is 6.7 billion ISK. The cost for land shaping and surface finishing is estimated at 2.1 billion ISK.
With the CityLine, a new public transportation system will emerge, tying the city and neighboring municipalities closer together, improving the quality of life, simplifying daily life for residents. With it we strengthen infrastructure, make a great city even better, and take vital steps in addressing climate change issues and improving public health.
Alda - Bridge over Fossvogur
