Puente Caucau, Bascule bridge in Valdivia, Chile
The bridge crosses the Caucau River between Isla Teja and Las Animas in Valdivia, using two lifting sections that open to let boats pass underneath. A control tower rises from the center, housing the machinery that operates the steel panels above the water.
Work started in 2011 as part of a national infrastructure program marking the country's bicentennial anniversary. Technical problems delayed completion for over a decade, with the bridge finally opening to traffic in 2024.
The bridge connects the areas of Isla Teja and Las Animas, representing the first bascule bridge structure built in Chile for maritime and road transportation.
The crossing is open to pedestrians, cyclists, and vehicles, with each group using separate lanes on the deck. Visitors can watch the lifting mechanism and river views from the walkways when the movable sections are raised.
Installation errors in the lifting system caused disputes between government agencies and contractors during construction. The incorrectly fitted components had to be partially dismantled and corrected before regular operation could begin.
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