The Härjapea River Bridge, believed to have been constructed in the 18th century, was uncovered during reconstruction works on the Jõe and Pronksi streets. Preserving the bridge would not cause significant changes in the construction work schedule.

“Last week, an arch bridge was unearthed during construction works at the intersection of Pronksi tänav and Narva maantee,” said Tallinn Deputy Mayor Vladimir Svet. “The bridge was used as a crossing over the Härjapea River, which once flowed through the area. According to specialists, the bridge is in relatively good condition and could date back to the 18th century. We have decided to preserve the bridge so that future generations will have the opportunity to excavate and exhibit it if they wish.”

The bridge was constructed during the same period as the Kadriorg Palace and the roads leading up to it. However, it is currently covered by roads and tramways, making it impossible to exhibit at this time. The bridge was not mentioned in documents related to underground communications, so its existence came as a surprise to the construction workers. To continue the reconstruction works while preserving the bridge, some minor changes need to be made in the work project, including adjusting the locations of underground communications. The additional works will bring along a six-day delay in the reopening of the tram lines.

“We have been in communication with heritage protection specialists from the very beginning and have taken their opinions into consideration,” said Svet. “If we had decided to demolish the bridge, we would have needed to create a digital recording of it, followed by a complete excavation. The costs and time required would have been relatively similar to preservation. We are considering various options for signifying the location of the bridge on a sidewalk nearby.”

To preserve the bridge, the ground under it must be stabilised, and empty spaces must be filled with Uretek polymer foam. Necessary changes are also being made to the water canalisation and road construction projects, which includes the relocation of several water nodes. The additional costs amount to 16,800 euros, including VAT.