The Bimil·lenari Bridge, Elche’s famous bridge, requires urgent repairs that cannot be delayed. This viaduct, which connects the city centre to the western neighbourhoods, is used by over 16,000 cars every day, making it an important axis for urban movement. However, neighbours have been noticing signs of stress on the pavement for years, including subsidence, potholes in the upper roundabout, and surface deformations that have aroused growing public concern.
Municipal technical examinations have determined that the problem is caused by the cracking of the concrete slabs beneath the roundabout’s surface. The technical assessment prepared in April 2025 has stated that the roadway “constantly exhibits deformities due to possible foundation instability issues.” In practice, this instability creates cracks beneath the asphalt, promoting sinking, which is exacerbated by water seepage and ground support failures.
The patches that have been adopted thus far have only provided temporary answers, as the problem reoccurs after each repair. As a result, Elche City Council has chosen to adopt a proactive approach by implementing extensive interventions.
The contracting process began in April, and following administrative procedures, a €2.5 million budget and a six-month completion period were approved. The Council announced that work would begin in October 2025.
The project includes several key actions that seek to eliminate subsidence at its root:
- Roadway repair : 1,300 square meters of pavement will be repaired , removing the damaged surface and replacing the broken concrete slabs.
- Structural reinforcement : Two new support columns will be installed on either side of the bridge counterweights to transfer loads to stable ground.
- Stabilization of the Vinalopó River slope : erosion has caused sinkholes near the embankment, so it will be reinforced to prevent erosion and ensure bank stability.
In addition, the plan includes ground improvement measures such as jet grouting, if necessary, and the placement of bridging slabs to prevent water from weakening the support once more.
The commencement of building in October has caused criticism, as this month is traditionally the wettest in the Valencian Community. According to AEMET statistics, 176.4 litres per square metre were recorded in October 2024, more than three times the typical quantity. Residents and local groups are concerned that excessive rain or flooding could disrupt the planned schedule.
The City Council has answered that there is no room for additional delays. Municipal sources emphasise the importance of repairing the Bimil·lenari Bridge, as it is one of Elche’s busiest entries. To reduce dangers, traffic diversions, lane closures, and contingency plans will be implemented in the event of excessive rainfall.
The Bimil·lenari Bridge handles over 6 million vehicles per year, indicating the extent of the problem. Each collapse not only slows traffic but also increases safety for cars and pedestrians.
Councillor Guilabert sought to reassure: “The bridge is completely stable at the moment, but the intervention is justified by the insecurity it creates for users.” In other words, the work responds not to aesthetic concerns, but to the pressing necessity to ensure road safety and protect Elche’s key infrastructure.
With this proposal, the city anticipates a few months of aggravation and traffic delays, but the end result will be a restored, stable, and safe bridge. The project intends to rehabilitate the Pont del Bimil·lenari bridge to ensure its long-term viability as a major artery in the city.
Author: Derek Appleton
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