Vital Leyte bridge eyes to open in July

TACLOBAN CITY, May 24 (PNA) -- The 2nd Leyte Engineering District of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH 2nd LED) expressed optimism that contractors can meet with the extended target date this June to finish the PHP36.5-million reconstruction of the Hiagsam Bridge in Jaro, Leyte.

The main bridge at least, according to 2nd LED District Engr. Carlos Veloso, while the extended part will have to be accomplished on a later date.

The reconstruction started in November and had the original target date of completion this May; however, its contractor had to request for an extension which is set in June.

Veloso said the least to expect is to have the main bridge opened to public starting July.

Being reconstructed is a reinforced concrete deck girder (RCDG) bridge which is 19.3 meters wide and will span the length of 50.8 linear meters.

The bridge will also be expanded on each side in line with the road widening projects being done to the public highways adjacent to the bridge.

Highways within the second district are being widened to accommodate more traffic and provide easier travel.

Soil exploration or boring test has also been done to the foundation of the bridge prior to the reconstruction’s groundbreaking last November.

After the bridge was damaged in December 2014 by typhoon Seniang, an asphalt overlay detour spillway have been constructed as an alternative bridge being utilized for a smooth traffic accessible to motorcycle, light vehicles and medium truck. The detour bridge runs both ways.

Veloso said he is positive contractors will be able to meet the target date of completion in order to bring back the normal flow of traffic along this area.

The bridge is a vital structure in Leyte province linking Tacloban City, the regional capital and Ormoc City, the economic hub in Southern Leyte. (PNA)
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