In early 2026, Gdańsk is gripped by a rare, "old-school" winter as temperatures plunge to -23°C. For the first time in 15 years, the Motława River has frozen solid, transforming the waterway into a scenic ice-walking and skating path. With maritime traffic halted by the freeze, the Ołowianka footbridge remains lowered. The bridge, which does not currently need to be opened for passing vessels, is on a sort of winter break, providing a permanent crossing for pedestrians braving the Arctic cold.Our pedestrian and cycling drawbridge over the River Motława was completed in 2017. A popular crossing links Gdańsk Old Town with the island of Ołowianka and successfully complements one of the city’s most beautiful views.
In terms of structural systems, the bridge is divided into two parts. The first is designed as a reinforced concrete integral structure with a span of 13,25 meters. The second, movable part of the bridge is designed as a single leaf drawbridge with a span of 40 meters.
The trunnion is placed on the outer edge of the abutment caisson on the Ołowianka Island. Inside the control building, hidden below ground and water level, the entire mechanical equipment and the electro-hydraulic lifting mechanism are installed. A control building is designed as functional extension of the bridge superstructure.
The deck is rising to an angle of 65 degrees, opening/closing procedure takes two minutes.
The drawbridge has been awarded several times for its architecture and technical solutions.
Learn more:
Footbridge to Ołowianka Island in Gdansk
