The new 1129 m long Elbe Bridge at Schönebeck consists of a 309 m long southern approach bridge, a 489 m long main bridge across the Elbe River and a 331 m long northern approach bridge. The main span across the river is cable-stayed and comprises a 185 m span of steel-concrete composite construction and an A-shaped pylon. The bridge has been constructed to relieve the City of Schönebeck from the considerable increase of through traffic it has experienced in recent years.
The judges were impressed by the elegant simplicity of the bridge which has been thoughtfully detailed to fit perfectly into the surrounding landscape whilst, at the same time, creating a landmark structure. The steel box superstructure was well chosen to suit the segmental erection methodology, to provide aerodynamic stability and to provide smooth lines to the deck, reducing its apparent depth.