TUGUEGARAO CITY, Philippines- The construction of P640-million landmark bridge in Isabela is now on-going, the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) said on Wednesday, January 17.
In a press release, DPWH said the bridge, about 720 lineal meters, is set to be finished in 2019.
The project will replace the overflow bridge connecting the towns of Santa Maria and Cabagan in Isabela.
DPWH said the bridge will include the construction of 12 spans bridge, concreting of two-lane approaches measuring 557 meters (6.70 meter wide), and additional 574-meter shoulder improvement, slope protection works, earthworks, drainage structure and other miscellaneous structures.
The bridge, according to DPWH Cagayan Valley regional director Melanio Briosos, will “significantly” reduce the travel time to Cordillera Administration when coming from Ilagan City, Isabela.
He added that it could also benefit t 2,751 motorists per day, made possible with the connection of Santiago – Tuguegarao Road and Daang Maharlika (Cagayan Valley Road).
“The project will spur socio-economic development and increase productivity in the areas to alleviate the living condition of the populace as well as improve and provide direct access to and between outlying barangays, municipalities and cities,” Director Briosos said.
During heavy rains and typhoons, the Cabagan-Santa Maria overflow bridge is usually submerged to swollen river, disrupting the economic and social movement of the local residents. Northernforum.net
