Project Calandbrug: challenges around jetty and ferry

Due to the failure of the Caland bridge in the industrial area of Rotterdam-Europoort, a creative solution had to be devised within a very short time so that cycling schoolchildren no longer had to take a 6-kilometer detour through the port area. Baars was assigned this challenging assignment by the Department of Public Water Works. Within six weeks, a fully operational ferry connection had to be constructed on the Caland Canal, allowing bicycle traffic to reach the other side quickly and safely. We are proud to say that Baars succeeded in constructing a ferry landing stage on both banks, making a safe and fast crossing possible again.

The Project

Baars was commissioned to carry out the design, engineering and realization of the entire project. In order to construct a ferry connection at that location, two embarkation and disembarkation points were required. These embarkation and disembarkation points each consist of a floating modular pontoon, a footbridge and a gathering place for bicyclists on the shore.

The challenges around the jetty and ferry

The location of the Caland Bridge presented reasonable constraints that had to be taken into account in the design and execution of the project. From the Brittanniëhaven, very large ships pass through the Caland Canal, which also travel very close to the bank because of limited space between the bank and the waterway. In addition, there are vibration-sensitive pipeline strips on both banks, there is tidal water, there is a main water barrier, and there is a large difference in elevation between the average water level and ground level on the banks. This made it a challenge to simply construct a regular jetty and ferry in the area.

Our solution

Baars came up with an appropriate solution, taking into account all the challenges surrounding this project. By using an intermediate support point on one bank, and an extra long bridge on the other side, a design was created that met all the criteria. A special abutment was created for the extra-long bridge on one bank, due to the nearby cables. In this way, there is a suitable jetty for the ferry on both sides. Click on final solution for the video.

Collaborations

For the permits that had to be obtained for the project from both the Municipality of Rotterdam and the ‘Hollandse Delta Water Board’, Baars provided design documents and structural calculations. Baars also had a stability analysis prepared for the manager of the slope. After obtaining the permits, the execution of the project was carried out from the water in close coordination with the Port of Rotterdam Authority.

Finishing modular pontoons

In connection with the suction effect of the large, passing seagoing vessels, Baars’ modular pontoons were not anchored with spud poles, but with compound tubular piles 24 meters long. That results in extra well anchored modular pontoons in the ground. The completed coupling pontoons are finished with maritime lighting and radar reflectors to ensure nautical safety. During the trial operation, Baars himself assisted in making the last necessary modifications. During use of the jetty and ferry, Baars provides control and maintenance of the coupling pontoons and gangways to ensure safe use. A weekly inspection cycle has been established for this purpose, with reporting to the client.

Renting container pontoons

Baars has a large stock of modular pontoons for rent and modular pontoons for sale, so we can provide a solution for every project. Ideal for use at sea, in port, at river or in lake. Baars: Our creativity your solution!