Copenhagen bicycle bridge funding is included in the city’s Budget 2026, allocating a municipal contribution of DKK 333.8 million (€44.8 million) for a new cycle-and-pedestrian link from Østerbro/Nordhavn to Refshaleøen.
The project—expected to cost about DKK 660 million (€88.5 million) in total—aims to improve everyday mobility while supporting the long-term development of the Østhavn and Lynetteholm areas.
Route B2a: from Indiakaj to Refshalevej
The Technical and Environmental Administration (Teknik- og Miljøforvaltningen) recommends route B2a, a low bridge connecting Indiakaj in Nordhavn (Østerbro) to Refshalevej on Refshaleøen. The alignment lies outside the heritage protection zone around Kastellet and is designed to integrate with existing signalised crossings on Folke Bernadottes Allé, easing access for commuters.
Timeline, cost and funding mix
The municipal budget sets aside DKK 333.8 million (€44.8 million) for construction, with the remaining financing expected to be secured through external co‑funding, including the national cycling fund. A further DKK 21 million (€2.8 million) per year from 2033 is earmarked for bridge operators and operations. Planning allocations are scheduled in 2025–2027, and the investment profile runs through 2032.
Bridge operations: hourly openings and maritime access
The low bridge will include a dual swing section that can open in both directions, creating an approximately 60‑metre navigational channel for large vessels such as cruise ships and naval craft.
In closed position, the bridge offers 6.63 metres of clearance so harbour buses and smaller boats can pass underneath. The operating plan anticipates the bridge opening once per hour, balancing maritime traffic with predictable passage for cyclists and pedestrians.
Denmark’s longest cycle span: specifications and capacity
At roughly 460 metres, the structure is set to become Denmark’s longest cycling bridge. The design life is 100 years. Initial demand modelling foresees peak flows of about 2,250 cyclists and 225 pedestrians per hour per direction, with daily bicycle traffic projected to rise over coming decades as northern harbour districts grow.
What’s next for Copenhagen’s harbour mobility
The bridge strengthens east–west links across the inner harbour and complements long‑term plans tied to Østhavn and Lynetteholm. As design and permitting proceed, city authorities will refine opening schedules with harbour stakeholders to minimise delays during the boating season.
For residents and visitors, the project promises a direct, car‑free connection between Østerbro and the fast‑developing Refshaleøen cultural and innovation hub.
