Krúsrak Bridge in Sneek permanently closed due to irreparable damage, replacement planned
Residents of Sneek face disruptions as the iconic Krúsrak Bridge, a vital link between Duinterpen and the city center, is permanently closed after restoration efforts failed. A sustainable alternative is now in the works, while the historic structure will be dismantled for potential reuse.
| Key Data | Details |
|---|---|
| Bridge Name | Krúsrak Bridge |
| Location | Over the N7, Sneek, Friesland |
| Year Built | 2008 |
| Renovation Start | May 2025 |
| Reason for Halt | Irreparable structural damage |
| Cost Consideration | Disproportionately high compared to original construction/renovation costs |
| Similar Case | Duvelsrak Bridge (under investigation) |
| Next Steps | Dismantling, documentation, and exploration of a new connection |
| Stakeholders Involved | Rijkswaterstaat, Municipality of Zuidwest-Friesland, Province of Friesland |
Rijkswaterstaat is responsible for the management and maintenance of major roads and waterways in the Netherlands, including bridges like the Krúsrak Bridge. Their role involves ensuring structural safety, sustainability, and connectivity for both civilian and freight traffic.
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Read the full translated article below
Permanent halt to restoration work on wooden Krúsrak Bridge in Sneek
Published on: March 19, 2026, 10:00 AM
Rijkswaterstaat has definitively halted restoration work on the wooden Krúsrak Bridge over the N7 in Sneek. During the renovation, it became clear that the structural safety of the bridge can no longer be guaranteed.
The costs for further repairs would also be disproportionately high compared to the original construction and renovation costs. The decision was made following careful research and consultations with the relevant authorities and stakeholders.
Irreparable damage to the structure
Since May 2025, work has been underway on the renovation of the bridge, which was built in 2008. After cleaning the wooden structure, it became apparent that the damage was significantly worse than expected, making a sustainable repair attempt impossible.
The other wooden bridge over Sneek’s ring road, the Duvelsrak, has since shown similar damage. The severity of this damage is currently under further investigation. The municipality of Zuidwest-Friesland, the province of Friesland, the involved private parties, and the minister have been actively informed about the situation and its potential consequences in recent months.
Next steps
With the restoration work now halted, several follow-up measures will be taken. The Krúsrak Bridge will be carefully dismantled and documented due to its cultural and historical value. In consultation with the relevant authorities and stakeholders, it will be explored whether and how the materials used can be repurposed.
Additionally, work will begin on developing a safe, sustainable, and well-manageable alternative connection between the Duinterpen district and Sneek’s city center. The Duvelsrak Bridge will also be assessed to prevent duplication of efforts.
Iconic wooden bridge
The Krúsrak Bridge, built in 2008, is a distinctive wooden bridge over the N7 and connects the Duinterpen district with Sneek’s city center. At the time, it was the world’s first wooden bridge capable of supporting freight traffic up to 60 tons.