The Little Belt Crossing
A Danish Engineering Milestone: An in-depth exploration of the New Little Belt Bridge, connecting Jutland and Funen.
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Overview
A Vital Connection
The New Little Belt Bridge is a significant suspension bridge that spans the Little Belt strait, a crucial waterway separating the mainland of Jutland (Jylland) from the island of Funen (Fyn) in Denmark. It serves as a critical piece of infrastructure for national and international transport.
Purpose and Significance
Constructed between 1965 and 1970, the bridge was designed to alleviate the considerable traffic congestion experienced on the older Little Belt Bridge. Its modern design and capacity as a motorway have made it indispensable for the region's connectivity and economic activity.
Engineering Excellence
As a suspension bridge, it represents a notable feat of engineering for its time. Its substantial main span and height allow for unimpeded maritime traffic, underscoring its dual role in facilitating both land and sea transportation.
Specifications
Dimensions and Scale
The bridge boasts impressive dimensions, reflecting its status as a major engineering project:
- Total Length: 1,700 meters
- Longest Span: 600 meters (1,969 feet)
- Pylon Height: 120 meters
- Clearance Below: 44 meters above sea level
Design and Capacity
Engineered as a suspension bridge, its design prioritizes strength and span capability. It accommodates significant traffic flow:
- Design Type: Suspension bridge
- Number of Lanes: 6 (3 in each direction)
- Carriageway: Motorway standard
Toll Status
In a move to facilitate traffic flow and reduce administrative overhead, passage over the New Little Belt Bridge is toll-free. This contrasts with many other major infrastructure projects and highlights its role as a public service.
History
Construction and Inauguration
Construction of the New Little Belt Bridge commenced in 1965, driven by the escalating need for greater capacity to handle the growing volume of vehicular traffic between Jutland and Funen. The project was completed in 1970.
Location
Geographic Context
The bridge is strategically situated to connect two of Denmark's major geographical areas across the Little Belt strait. It forms a vital link in the European route E20.
- Crosses: Little Belt strait
- Connects: Jutland (Jylland) and Funen (Fyn)
- Route: Carries the European route E20
Coordinates
The precise geographic location of the New Little Belt Bridge is marked by the following coordinates, facilitating navigation and identification:
- Latitude: 55ยฐ31โฒ07โณN
- Longitude: 9ยฐ44โฒ57โณE
- Decimal Coordinates: 55.5186ยฐN 9.7492ยฐE
Impact on Transportation
Alleviating Congestion
The primary impact of the New Little Belt Bridge has been the significant reduction in traffic congestion. By providing three lanes of motorway in each direction, it vastly increased the capacity compared to the old bridge, ensuring smoother and faster transit for vehicles.
European Route E20
The bridge is an integral part of the European route E20, a major trans-European corridor connecting Shannon, Ireland, to Saint Petersburg, Russia. Its inclusion on this route underscores its importance for international road transport and connectivity across Europe.
Year-Round Accessibility
A notable feature is the integrated heating system within the road deck. This innovative solution ensures the bridge remains free of ice and snow during winter, guaranteeing continuous accessibility and safety for all users, regardless of weather conditions.
Cultural Notes
Cinematic Appearance
The New Little Belt Bridge has made its mark in popular culture, notably appearing in the Danish film The Olsen Gang in Jutland (Olsen Banden i Jylland). The bridge is visible at approximately 0:12:11 into the film, marking the fictional arrival of the Olsen Gang to Jutland, cementing its place in Danish cinematic history.
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Disclaimer
Important Notice Regarding Content
This page has been generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is derived from a specific snapshot of publicly available data, as indicated by the source article. Please note that the original source article contained a notice stating it "needs additional citations for verification." Therefore, the information presented here may not be entirely comprehensive, up-to-date, or fully substantiated.
This is not professional engineering or transportation advice. The information provided on this website is not a substitute for professional consultation regarding structural engineering, transportation planning, or civil infrastructure. Always consult official documentation, qualified professionals, and relevant authorities for specific project needs or detailed analysis.
The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors, omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided herein. Users are encouraged to consult primary sources and expert opinions for critical decision-making.