The cable-stayed bridge - with a 404m-long central span - rises over the River Loire and links Saint-Nazaire on the north bank and Saint-Brevin-les-Pins on the south bank
The rehabilitation of the partly submerged concrete columns is planned from 2027 to 2032, with an estimated cost of €40 million. An additional €8 million will upgrade the bridge’s dynamic three-lane management system, which uses reversible lanes to accommodate peak traffic flow. “Although in good condition overall, the pile work will extend the life of the structure beyond its 100-year expectancy,” said Freddy Hervochon, vice president in charge of mobility at the Loire-Atlantique Department’s major works unit. The lane system includes folding barriers, illuminated red studs embedded in the asphalt, and signs indicating lane status to drivers.
Constructed over three years and opened on October 18, 1975, the bridge was initially managed by SAEM du pont Saint-Nazaire, which handled construction and toll collection. In 1992, the Loire-Atlantique department assumed control, making the bridge toll-free by October 1, 1994. The original steelwork was completed by Compagnie Française d’Entreprises Métalliques (CFEM), with concrete work by Société Générale d’Entreprises (SGE) and foundation tasks subcontracted to Morillon-Corvol, Courbot, and Dodin.
The upcoming maintenance will enhance the bridge’s durability and operational efficiency, ensuring continued reliability for commuters and supporting regional connectivity. The project reflects a commitment to maintaining critical infrastructure while integrating modern traffic management solutions to meet evolving demands.
