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An important project on BR-470 could transform the landscape of Serra Gaúcha and open up new possibilities for infrastructure and tourism in the region, uniting history and modernity.
In the midst of a revitalization process of BR-470, which runs from Bento Gonçalves to Veranópolis, the National Department of Transport Infrastructure (Dnit) is considering building a new bridge to cross the Rio das Antas.
The proposal is that the new structure be built next to the historic Ernesto Dornelles Bridge, also known as the famous arch bridge.
With over 70 years of existence, the current bridge requires major investments, and Dnit is evaluating the best alternatives to guarantee the safety and functionality of the region.
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Adalberto Jurach, regional superintendent of Dnit, explained that the Ernesto Dornelles Bridge, in addition to being quite old, is not wide enough to support the current flow of vehicles, which makes the need for significant renovation urgent.
At just seven meters wide, the bridge does not even have a proper shoulder, which raises concerns about the safety of drivers traveling there.
Last year, the bridge suffered a considerable impact when one of its ends was hit by landslides, which worsened the condition of the structure.
According to Jurach, the need for rehabilitation is undeniable, and Dnit is considering whether it would be more advantageous to build a new bridge or carry out a substantial renovation of the current one.
The feasibility study and costs of this new project should be finalized in the coming months, and the final decision will be based on a detailed analysis.
The story behind the Ernesto Dornelles Bridge
Opened in August 1952, the Ernesto Dornelles Bridge carries significant historical weight.
Its name honors the former governor of Rio Grande do Sul, Ernesto Dornelles, who led the state from 1951 to 1955.
The bridge, designed by renowned engineer Antônio Alves de Noronha, is a true engineering landmark, with two parallel arches and a free span of 186 meters in length.
When it was built, it was considered one of the largest bridges with this architectural style in the world, standing out for its grandeur and innovation.
For more than seven decades, the Ernesto Dornelles Bridge has been one of the largest and most important connections in Serra Gaúcha, connecting the municipalities of Bento Gonçalves and Veranópolis, in addition to serving as a vital link for the transportation of people and goods in the region.
It is, without a doubt, one of the biggest postcards of Serra das Antas., attracting tourists and becoming a symbol of the strength and resilience of the infrastructures of Rio Grande do Sul.
The impact of the new bridge on tourism and the local economy
Despite being considered safe for current traffic, the Ernesto Dornelles Bridge is already far from meeting the needs of the growing demand for vehicles.
Therefore, the project to build a new bridge has been discussed, with the aim of increasing traffic capacity and ensuring the safety of people traveling through the region.
However, even with the construction of a new structure, Dnit plans to maintain the current bridge.
The idea is to preserve it as a tourist attraction, with a revitalization project aimed at promoting the history and culture of Serra Gaúcha.
The proposal is that the Ernesto Dornelles Bridge be transformed into a point of tourist interest, with the construction of a project that involves the local community and explores the bridge's historical potential.
The idea is to create a space that attracts visitors from different parts of Brazil and even abroad, highlighting the importance of the region in the historical and cultural context of Rio Grande do Sul.
Furthermore, the construction of a new bridge should also boost the local economy, especially in sectors such as tourism and commerce, by improving accessibility and connectivity between municipalities in the region.
The expectation is that this infrastructure improvement will not only benefit the residents of Serra Gaúcha, but will also attract more tourists to the region., which could generate new business opportunities and increase the flow of visitors.
Challenges and solutions for the modernization of BR-470
The project to build a new bridge on BR-470 is part of a broader effort by Dnit to improve the conditions of the highway, which is one of the most important in the state.
BR-470 connects the Rio Pardo Valley to the north of the state, serving as a vital link between the central region of Rio Grande do Sul and the coast.
For this reason, the modernization of this route is considered a priority for the economic and social development of the region.
However, the BR-470 modernization process faces several challenges, mainly in relation to the rugged terrain of Serra Gaúcha.
Mountainous terrain and adverse weather conditions require complex solutions and significant investments.
Furthermore, it is necessary to ensure that the works are carried out without harming vehicle circulation and the daily lives of local communities., which makes planning even more challenging.
Regarding the new bridge, Dnit has been looking for alternatives that meet the needs of modern transportation without disregarding the historical preservation of the region.
Building a new structure next to the current bridge represents a balanced solution, as it will allow the continuity of heavy vehicle traffic and will also preserve the tourist and historical character of the Ernesto Dornelles Bridge.
The importance of infrastructure investments for the future
The project to build the new bridge and revitalize BR-470 are part of a larger effort to improve transportation infrastructure in Rio Grande do Sul.
Investments in infrastructure are essential to ensure sustainable economic growth and improve the population's quality of life. The modernization of highways and the construction of new bridges are essential to enable safe and efficient transportation, in addition to contributing to the development of new tourist and commercial regions.
With the completion of the works, it is expected that the Serra Gaúcha region will become even more accessible., attracting tourists and promoting the strengthening of the local economy.
Furthermore, improvements in road infrastructure will have a positive impact on other areas, such as safety, tourism and urban mobility.
The preservation of historical heritage, such as the Ernesto Dornelles Bridge, is also a priority for Dnit.
The bridge maintenance and revitalization project aims to ensure that future generations can enjoy this important engineering feat., while benefiting from the improvements being implemented on the highway.
So, what do you think about the construction of a new bridge on BR-470? Do you believe that the preservation of a historical heritage site like the Ernesto Dornelles Bridge should be maintained, or would it be better to focus entirely on new constructions to meet current demand? Share your opinion in the comments!
