Recent calculations from the Norwegian Public Roads Administration reveal that the cost of demolishing and rebuilding the E18 bridges at Sandvika could reach 14 billion NOK. This significant financial estimate has led to a reevaluation of the project, suggesting that constructing a tunnel under Sandvika could be a more sensible option from a socio-economic standpoint. Tom Hedalen, the project manager for the E18 expansion, emphasized that this is not merely about maintenance or upgrades but rather a necessity to completely rebuild the bridges.

Hedalen further elaborated on the potential disruptions this project could cause to local traffic and the surrounding community. The process of rebuilding the bridges is expected to result in considerable inconvenience for residents of Sandvika as well as disruptions in traffic flows. If the current bridges are to be demolished and rebuilt, there may be a need to construct a temporary bridge across the Oslofjord, which adds to the logistical challenges involved in this project.

These developments are particularly relevant as the existing E18 bridges, constructed in the 1960s, have raised concerns regarding their structural integrity. With the increasing cost implications and community impact, stakeholders are now faced with critical decisions about the best course of action for maintaining and improving this vital infrastructure in Norway.