We are renovating the deck structures of the Iijoki railway bridge using composite slabs

Kreate is renovating the superstructure of the railway bridge crossing the Iijoki River on the section of track between Oulu and Laurila in Ii. The project includes replacing the rails and sleepers, constructing new maintenance walkways and guardrails, and installing a rail movement device and corner support walls.

Built in 1949, this steel bridge connects rail traffic, vehicular traffic passing beneath the bridge, and a pedestrian and bicycle path, as well as the Iijoki River flowing beneath it. Together, they form a comprehensive framework that sets high standards for implementation, particularly regarding safety and environmental considerations.

Our track maintenance crews primarily carry out their work during 24-hour complete track closures and shorter work windows. Work on the bridge is carried out in one direction, which is why the work phases are planned and scheduled with precision. Work will begin with the construction of scaffolding, and its smooth progress will pave the way for the renewal of the superstructure. Actual superstructure work requires millimetre-precise and controlled execution, where careful measurement and our own track equipment ensure the success of the project.

One of the key steps in the project is replacing the old wooden fences with durable, long-lasting composite slabs. The use of composite slabs has so far been relatively rare in Finland and has been limited to individual smaller railway projects; therefore, in the Iijoki railway bridge project, we are utilizing them on a larger scale than usual. The composite sleeper switch we installed during the construction of the Tornio rail yard has expanded our experience with the use of composites, and we are now applying this expertise to the Iijoki project as well.

We are also exploring the possibility of reusing the existing structures of the railway bridge’s maintenance walkways. This supports Kreate’s approach to delivering demanding infrastructure projects, which is based on material efficiency and sustainable solutions.

Repair projects for complex steel truss bridges are part of our extensive expertise. The Tornio railway bridge, which won the “Bridge of the Year 2025” award, is an example of high-level expertise in railway bridge construction, which we are also applying to this project.

The Iijoki railway bridge is part of the Finnish Transport Agency’s OULA project between Oulu and Laurila, which involves renovating the superstructure of the railway section and improving the reliability of the railway infrastructure. Work in Ii began in April 2026, and the project is scheduled for completion in December 2026.