The first accident caused by the bump was reported on Wednesday.
Workers are adding warning signs and bright paint to a section of Helsinki’s new, nearly 1.2-kilometer-long bridge to warn cyclists about a fairly big bump that has prompted at least one accident.
The bump is caused by a metal threshold in the structure. However, the threshold is a key part of the bridge, as it provides a joining point for the structure, preventing breakage caused by thermal expansion.
The Kruunuvuori Bridge was officially opened to the public on Saturday with many people arriving to see Finland’s longest bridge.
The structure is also thought to be the longest bridge in the world that only serves pedestrians, cyclists and, eventually, trams.
Workers were seen on Thursday spray painting the elevated threshold in bright yellow, and warning signs are also planned.
The first cycling accident caused by the bump reportedly occurred on Wednesday.
Yle journalist Jouni Munukka said he saw the cyclist lying on the ground next to his bike and two paramedics helping him, adding that he did not witness the actual crash.
Work is underway to determine whether the height of the threshold could be lowered, with a decision expected soon. If structural changes are required, it may result in closing the bridge for a few days.
According to the Crown Bridges Light Rail project’s communications chief, Lauri Hänninen, cyclists are responsible for their own safety.
“Cyclists also have their own responsibility on bridges. Maintaining an appropriate speed is a key issue in preventing accidents,” he said.
