Bridges are part of our everyday lives. They are such natural elements of transport that we often don’t even notice them—we simply cross them. Yet every single bridge is the result of engineering decisions, long-term responsibility, and conscious planning.

In Hungary, nearly 23–24,000 bridges are currently in operation. This number includes not only major river crossings but also smaller bridges and overpasses that ensure the smooth functioning of daily transport. Together, these structures form the network upon which our everyday lives are built.

Bridges Designed for 100 Years – and Beyond

Bridges are typically designed for a service life of 100 years. However, this does not mean that engineering responsibility ends once the design phase is complete. On the contrary, long-term performance depends on considering the entire life cycle of a bridge—from design through operation to renovation.

This is one of the key topics discussed by Péter Kolozsi, Director of the Bridge Design Office at CÉH zRt., in our latest video interview. The conversation highlights that with the right approach and careful maintenance, many bridges can remain in service well beyond their originally intended design life.

The Invisible Responsibility: Inspection and Maintenance

The condition of a bridge does not deteriorate overnight. Problems usually begin with small signs: minor damage, material fatigue, or environmental impacts. This is why timely inspection and maintenance are of crucial importance.

Engineering practice clearly shows that issues which can be addressed today with minor interventions and lower costs may require significantly greater investment if postponed.

Delayed decisions do not only pose economic risks—they can also compromise usability and safety.

For bridges, forward-thinking is therefore essential. Regular condition assessments, planned maintenance, and interventions carried out at the right time all contribute to ensuring that these structures serve transport reliably and safely over the long term.

The full conversation is available on our YouTube channel