The survey, design, and construction of the USD60 million China-funded Davao River Bridge project are expected to start soon.

Chinese companies and the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) signed the commercial contract for the consulting services for the bridge’s detailed engineering design (DED) and construction supervision.

“After signing the Contract, the Consultant will carry out geotechnical investigation, geodesic surveys and data collection, and further complete the detailed engineering design The survey and design are scheduled to be completed within six months, and the construction supervision duration of the project is planned to be 24 months,” Chinese Ambassador Huang Xilian said on Tuesday.

“Looking forward to seeing the Davao River Bridge serve the local economic development and people’s livelihood at an early date,” he added.

The Davao River Bridge is located in the Bucana District, spanning over the east and west banks of the Davao River and connecting the coastal roads.

This two-way four-lane bridge will be 477 meters long with a total route length of 1,340 meters and will adopt a localized implementation mode, which means the Philippine side will be in charge of technical works and project management during the entire process.

Once completed, the bridge will accommodate more than 15,000 vehicles per day and significantly ease the traffic congestion in Davao City.

Huang said the project is also expected to employ about 300 to 500 locals during the peak construction period. (PNA)