Óbuda greenlights new pedestrian bridge to connect key districts
3 April 2025 – Another milestone in Óbuda’s urban development: the Budapest Metropolitan Municipality has approved construction of a new pedestrian bridge on Hajógyári Island. The bridge will link the former shipyard to the Waterfront City residential district and the northern, park-like section of Óbuda Island, creating a new pedestrian connection between currently isolated parts of the city.
The bridge will integrate directly with the ongoing Waterfront City project, which spans five hectares bordered by Folyamőr Street, Miklós Square, and Bogdáni Road. The development will include residential and commercial buildings while preserving and restoring a historically significant industrial chimney and a protected central building — reports Építész Fórum.
This project forms a key part of the Budai Promenade, a pedestrian corridor starting at Kolosy Square and extending to Main Square. Together, the promenade and the pedestrian bridge will create a human-scaled urban environment that prioritizes foot traffic.
Route and architectural concept of the bridge
The bridge is being designed by Hajnal Architectural Studio, the same firm behind the architecture of Waterfront City. It will begin at a central plaza next to the main building of the former Óbuda distillery, crossing over the HÉV suburban railway line, the riverfront road, and a Danube branch before reaching Óbuda Island. The concept design was prepared by Közlekedés Kft. and Speciálterv Engineering Ltd., while the ramps, stairs, and elevators are being designed by Hajnal Architectural Studio.
A chief goal of the project is to enhance pedestrian mobility based on the “city of short distances” principle, aiming to reduce physical separation caused by transportation infrastructure. Currently, the HÉV line and riverside road hinder direct access to the Danube and the island.
Cultural and heritage significance
The bridge carries not only transportation importance but also cultural weight. As part of the Budai Promenade, it will connect key historical and industrial heritage sites in the area, including the shipyard buildings, the ruins of Hadrian’s Palace, the former distillery’s main building, and the Harisnyagyár industrial complex.
Environmental planning and tree management
Environmental and dendrological studies for the bridge have emphasized conservation considerations. Nearly one-third of the trees on the island are invasive species. Most of these will not be preserved. In total, the condition of 111 trees was assessed, with removal recommended for invasive or unhealthy specimens.
Special attention has been given to ensure that the bridge supports avoid valuable trees. The placement of stairs, ramps, and other structures has been guided accordingly to preserve the island’s valuable northern tree groups.
Community connectivity and green spaces
On the Óbuda side, the bridge’s entry point will connect well with local residential green spaces, including the recently renovated Kaszap István Park. Pedestrians will access the new bridge via this green corridor — the Budai Promenade — potentially establishing a new communal meeting point for residents.
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