Hasselt (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – Hasselt opened a new bicycle and pedestrian bridge at PXL University on September 29, 2025. It spans the Grote Ring, weighs 276 tons, and benefits students like Marie (37). The official opening is scheduled for Wednesday, October 1, 2025.
As VRT News reported, Hasselt has officially opened a new bicycle and pedestrian bridge at PXL University of Applied Sciences. The bridge crosses the busy Grote Ring and connects both sides of Elfde-Liniestraat. City authorities said the bridge will also help improve traffic flow along the Singel canal.
What makes Hasselt’s new 276-ton PXL bicycle bridge safer and easier?
Students were among the first to use the bridge. Many commented on its design and comfort. One student said,
“It feels safer and more comfortable than I expected.”
Others noted the wide lanes and smooth surface, which make crossing quicker and less stressful.
“The situation is much better now than last year,”
says student Souhaila (19).
“Back then, you had to walk all the way around, and that was a lot more unsafe. Now it’s safer for cyclists and pedestrians.”
Zoe (22) also stepped onto the bridge for the first time.
“It’s definitely handy. I don’t think it’s pretty,”
she laughs.
PXL University employee Marie, 37 years old, cycles to work every day and says the bridge is easy to cross. The loops leading to the bridge and the bridge itself have a non-slip surface.
“Luckily, it’s not too steep; it’s manageable,”
Marie says.
“I’m especially happy that I no longer have to wait at the busy intersection. Although I do have to do a few extra kilometres, because it’s a big turn.”
Not all residents are satisfied with the changes. Some have criticised the bridge for reducing car parking spaces.
“I come by car myself,”
said 19-year-old student Ilano.
“The construction of the bridge has resulted in the loss of many parking spaces. For me, that is a disadvantage.”
The bridge opened for public use today. The official inauguration will take place on Wednesday, October 1, 2025. During the ceremony, the bridge will also be given its official name.
On August 5, 2024, the new bicycle and pedestrian bridge at PXL University of Applied Sciences, Hasselt, began construction operations. Construction started with roadworks to the intersection of Elfde-Liniestraat and the Grote Ring, with the required lane reductions and reductions in speed limits during the construction to ensure safety for workers and road users.
On December 14, 2024, 6 large sections of the bridge, weighing 276 tons in total, were lifted into place over the Grote Ring. The lift attracted a considerable amount of public interest, with about sixty people in all watching the contraption.
