Photo: Cesar von Meissen
The Kampmann Bridge – a bridge structure between past and future
After three years of planning and construction, the new Kampmann Bridge The Baldeneysee bridge spans the Ruhr River and simultaneously connects the Essen districts of Kupferdreh and Heisingen. It is designed in a way that is not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing. With its elegant cable-stayed architecture, striking pylons, and innovative lighting concept, it is not only functional but also beautifully designed. As a modern highlight of the Ruhr region, the bridge unites not only two riverbanks but also the past and the future.
Inauguration and construction
On December 20, 2019, the bridge was officially opened – an event that drew large numbers of Essen residents to the Baldeneysee. Around 500 visitors gathered to witness this historic moment. The new cable-stayed bridge was officially inaugurated by Mayor Thomas Kufen, Simone Raskob, and District Mayor Manfred Kuhmichel. Together, they unveiled a memorial plaque in the middle of the bridge, intended not only to commemorate the construction challenges but also to honor a worker who tragically lost his life during the work in May 2018. Accompanied by music from the Essen Mining Orchestra, the citizens crossed the bridge for the first time. Cable-stayed bridges are popular structures for spanning rivers. The longest cable-stayed bridge in the world, with the tallest bridge pier in the world, is the Millau Viaduct in France.
Strict nature conservation regulations
Measuring 173 meters long and 11.7 meters wide, the Kampmann Bridge is not only a technical masterpiece but also an environmentally conscious structure. Two generously sized lanes and a combined pedestrian and bicycle path make it a comfortable crossing for all road users. The lighting is particularly noteworthy: it is sensor-controlled and reacts to movement, minimizing energy consumption and protecting the habitat of local wildlife. From March 1st to October 31st, the lights are even switched off completely from 10:30 p.m. to 5:00 a.m. This is done to comply with the strict nature conservation regulations of the bird sanctuary. Heisinger Bogen to fulfill.
crossing fee and tidal wave
The history of the Kampmann Bridge is as multifaceted as the Ruhr region itself. Its origins date back to 1895, when Hermann Kampmann commissioned the first bridge to cross the Ruhr River, replacing the ferry. With the ferry's closure, people could no longer cross the Ruhr, so the bridge was built as a replacement. The bridge was a pontoon bridge, floating on the river. During floods, it could be secured to a higher approach using a winch. There was even a barrier and a toll booth where five pfennigs were charged for crossing. This toll remained in effect until World War II. When the Möhne Dam was blown up in 1943, a flood wave swept the pontoon bridge away. After the war, between 1950 and 1951, the bridge was replaced by a beam bridge. However, since this beam bridge was deemed dilapidated in 2014 and was only passable in one lane anyway, it had to be replaced by the current Kampmann Bridge.
Sustainability and nature conservation
The city of Essen had decided to finance the allocated 10 million euros itself, as the state government of North Rhine-Westphalia did not provide any subsidies. In the end, the bridge became considerably more expensive. Obstacles in the ground were among the reasons identified. The new Kampmann Bridge ultimately cost around 16 million euros. This included, among other things, the integration of an amphibian tunnel along Wuppertaler Straße into the design. Finally, the new Kampmann Bridge at Baldeneysee also serves as an example of how modern technology, sustainability, and nature conservation can go hand in hand.
Our conclusion
The Kampmann Bridge is more than just a bridge structure. It symbolizes the connection between people, neighborhoods, and history. Its simple, modern elegance allows the view to Baldeneysee And the Ruhr River is now free. Last but not least, the surrounding bus lines can once again directly access Kupferdreh station, which sustainably improves mobility in the region. Whether on foot, by bicycle, or by car – this bridge is not just a functional crossing, but an experience and an encounter with Essen's history and future.
