Pont du Pré-Claou, Road bridge in Montauroux, France.
The Pont du Pré-Claou is a road bridge spanning about 350 meters across the reservoir Lac de Saint-Cassien, connecting both shores in the Var region. Its design allows vehicles to cross between Montauroux and neighboring communities without needing to navigate around the water.
The bridge was constructed in 1965 and represented an important step in improving infrastructure across the Var region. It enabled villages on both sides of the lake to connect more easily with one another.
The D37 along the lake's eastern shore crosses two structures: a short bridge and the long Pont du Pré-Claou, opened in 1965. The lake itself filled in 1966, after the Malpasset Dam failure. The name Pré-Claou refers to the locality the bridge serves.
The bridge offers a direct driving route for cars and is passable in all seasons without needing detours. Pedestrians and cyclists can also use the crossing, though they should be mindful of vehicle traffic.
In 1992, cracks appeared in the bridge's reinforced concrete beams, forcing traffic restrictions; the main beams were then reinforced with steel trusses. The green steel bracing now visible along the deck dates from that strengthening work.
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