Budapest’s long-running renovation of the Flórián Square overpasses is entering its final stretch, with the project expected to be more than 90% complete by the end of July. Despite the extreme heatwave earlier this month, construction has continued according to schedule, bringing the reopening of one of the capital’s busiest transport links a significant step closer.
The bridge reconstruction is being carried out by Budapest Transport Centre (BKK), with KM Építő Ltd. serving as the main contractor.
Major structural works completed
Construction crews have completed several key phases of the project in recent weeks. Among the most important milestones:
- A new reinforced concrete structure has been completed at the bridge abutment on the Árpád Bridge side, allowing expansion joints and waterproofing works to proceed.
- Reconstruction of the bridge abutment on the Szentendrei Road side is now underway, representing the final major structural task.
- Engineers have completed an unexpected correction of the bridge deck’s geometry before continuing waterproofing works across the entire surface.
- Salt-resistant protective coatings have been applied to the bridge kerbs, while new steel safety barriers, guardrails and protective cables are being installed.
Road surfacing to begin in August
The project is now moving towards one of its final construction phases as workers prepare to lay the new road surface. Over the coming weeks, crews will complete the bridge’s drainage system, including new pavement drains and drip edges designed to improve rainwater management.
In early August, the existing asphalt on the approach ramps will be removed before new binder and wearing asphalt layers are laid across both the bridge and the connecting road sections. According to the current schedule, this work should be completed by mid-August.
To minimise disruption for nearby residents during the summer heat, non-noisy construction activities are continuing mainly during the night.
Traffic expected to return this autumn
If work continues as planned, the main bridge reconstruction will finish by the end of the summer, with the renovated northern overpass expected to reopen to traffic in autumn. Only minor finishing works, repairs and the restoration of the surface-level Flórián Square junction will remain after the bridge reopens.
Until then, the second phase of the renovation will continue to cause traffic restrictions. BKK is encouraging motorists to use public transport wherever possible, particularly Budapest’s high-capacity tram and metro services, to help reduce congestion around the construction site.
Drivers and commuters can follow the latest construction progress and traffic updates via the project’s official website and BKK’s traffic information channels.
What this means for travellers
If you’re visiting Budapest this summer, expect traffic delays around Flórián Square, one of the city’s key transport junctions on the Buda side. Travelling by metro, tram or suburban rail (HÉV) is likely to be faster than driving through the area while the works continue. The good news is that the disruption is nearing its end: with the northern overpass expected to reopen in autumn, both residents and tourists should soon benefit from smoother traffic flow, improved road safety and a more reliable transport connection between northern and central Budapest.
If you missed it last year: Huge traffic changes coming to Budapest: Flórián Square flyover renovation kicks off!
