Footbridge and Cycle Path – Irča vas

The Irča vas pedestrian and cyclist footbridge (Štukelj Footbridge) connects the left and right banks of the Krka River between Lastovče and Groblje, creating an important walking and cycling link towards Topliška cesta, the stadium, and the centre of Novo mesto. The new infrastructure also connects to the planned regional cycling route Novo mesto–Straža.

The footbridge is designed as a stress ribbon bridge without supports in the riverbed, allowing for minimal intervention in the natural environment. The slender reinforced concrete structure spans the Krka River in a single span with an elegant form. On both banks, it is anchored into concrete abutments, which are secured to the rocky foundation with permanent geotechnical anchors.

The design, incorporating integrated prestressing cables, ensures high stiffness and stability while reducing sensitivity to dynamic loads. The lowest point of the footbridge is approximately 4 metres above the 100-year flood level, and under normal water levels it is 11 metres above the river surface.

The project also includes a new cycle path, asphalt and landscape arrangements, as well as traffic and safety signage.

During construction, we participated as the professional construction supervisor, responsible for quality control, compliance with project documentation, and the coordinated operation of all contractors.

Today, the Irča vas footbridge represents an example of a highly sophisticated and well-executed infrastructure project, combining technical excellence, architectural elegance, and the principles of sustainable mobility.